SUPER: Harnessing the Unique Water-Responsive Behavior of Cellulosic Fiber
The SUPER co-innovation project aims to transfer the latest scientific knowledge generated by the FinnCERES Flagship Programme into a competitive advantage for the Finnish industry.
This project will reveal the potential of fibre-water interactions, focusing on the unique water-responsive behavior of cellulosic fibres. By utilizing this property, the SUPER project aims to improve the performance of difficult-to-bind fibres and develop completely new biobased products.
SUPER will take advantage of the high ability of cellulose to absorb moisture (hygroscopicity) in bio-based materials engineering. This particular characteristic of cellulose has not been widely focused on or emphasized in previous research or projects.
SUPER will…
Boost the performance of recycled fibres
Tailor pulp fibres specifically for new bio-based products
Develop cellulose-based porous materials for water purification and composite applications
Enhance the durability and moisture resistance of textile fibres and fabrics
While pulp fibers can help reduce the dependency on fossil resources, forest raw materials are not unlimited. Therefore, it is important to make the most out of materials already in use. Recycled fiber fractions can ultimately be transformed into valuable applications, enhancing the circular bioeconomy. SUPER will enable the sustainable growth for the forest sector by providing a competitive edge for the Finnish industry and revitalizing the competence of Finnish companies in the global market. The SUPER consortium expects that the research carried out in SUPER will enable approximately 1.25 Bn€ export for Finland by the year 2030.
SUPER creates a unique collaboration in Finland, bringing together key industrial players, VTT, and Aalto University, along with world-leading international research partners. The Consortium includes raw material producers (Metsä Fibre Oy, & Chempolis Oy), a leading chemicals producer (Kemira Oyj) and an enzyme specialist (Roal Oy), technology developers and providers (Sulzer Pumps Finland Oy, Megatrex Oy, Scitech-Service Oy), and an innovative group of product manufacturers and brand owners (Mondi Powerflute Oy, Corex Finland Oy, AQVA Finland Oy, Metsä Spring, Swisspearl Tuotanto Suomi Oy, Mirka Oy).