The Association for the Development of Research and Innovation of Quebec has presented a ‘Celebrate Partnerships!’ award to ArboraNano, the Canadian Forest NanoProducts Network, for its collaborative work with CelluForce, NanoQuébec and FPInnovations in the commercialization of nanocrystalline cellulose.
ArboraNano received the award on May 17, 2012 in a ceremony conducted at Marché Bonsecours in Montréal. Nanocrystalline cellulose is a sustainable nanomaterial as it obtained from wood fiber. The material is the subject of over 20 research and development projects coming under the support of ArboraNano and its collaborators. It holds potential in developing valuable manufactured products as it demonstrates novel electrical, optical and physical properties.
Nanocrystalline cellulose can be used in paper and board products, oil drilling, drug delivery systems, textiles, adhesives, membranes, composites, films, foams, security inks, coatings, and paints. Engineers and researchers from various Canadian Universities and from fields such as forest, health, automotive and aerospace are taking part in the work.
ArboraNano Network Director, Dr. Ron Crotogino stated that ArboraNano has helped in forming collaborations between scientists from various industry sectors, which are significant to develop new products based on nanocrystalline cellulose. ArboraNano’s experience in the production and application of nanocrystalline cellulose will be helpful in realizing the potential of cellulose to develop bio-economy, provide new business opportunities, and competitive benefits for Canada in the future.
CelluForce, a joint venture between FPInnovations and Domtar, produces nanocrystalline cellulose at its demonstration plant situated in Windsor, Québec. FPInnovations is a non-profit forest sector research and development institute and Domtar is an international supplier of paper products.
Source: http://www.arboranano.ca