Nano 2024 Delivers Outstanding Program
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TAPPI’s 2024 International Conference on Nanotechnology for Renewable Materials (Nano), held on June 10-14 in Atlanta, Georgia, was a resounding success. Featuring the latest advancements in nanotechnology using renewable materials, the conference offered insightful keynote presentations, engaging panel discussions, and rewarding networking opportunities. Attendees had the chance to hear from leading experts, celebrate award winners, and connect with peers from over 17 different countries.
Exceptional Technical Presentations
Throughout the conference, attendees were treated to a series of exceptional technical presentations from industry experts. These presentations covered a wide range of topics, from innovative nanocellulose applications to advancements in bio-based materials. The sessions were highly informative, providing valuable insights into the cutting-edge research and development efforts driving the industry forward.
Inspiring Keynote Presentations
The conference featured four outstanding keynote speakers who captivated the audience with their insights and research findings:
- Sean P. Ireland, CEO and Co-Found of CapaTec, Inc., opened the conference with his presentation titled, “The Present: Transcending (Bio) Territories,” Ireland's talk highlighted the transformative potential of these materials in various sectors, emphasizing their environmental benefits and performance enhancements.
- Carson Meredith, Executive Director of the Renewable Bioproducts Institute at Georgia Institute of Technology, delivered a compelling keynote on "Cellulose Nanomaterials at the Renewable Bioproducts Institute: Two Decades of Partnerships and Progress." Meredith's research focused on developing sustainable nanomaterials to replace traditional plastics, addressing the pressing need for environmentally friendly packaging solutions.
- Heli Kangas, Development Manager at Valmet, gripped the audience with her presentation on "Forward with MFC – Valmet’s latest technology development." Kangas shared her insights into the commercialization of nanocellulose-based products and the challenges and opportunities in bringing these innovations to market.
- Kenneth J. Zwick, Assistant Director of the USDA Forest Product Laboratory, rounded out the keynotes with his talk on "Making a Sustainable Future with Cellulose Nanomaterials at the USDA Forest Products Laboratory." Zwick discussed the role of nanotechnology in enhancing the properties of forest products, from paper to bio-based composites, and its potential to drive sustainability in the industry.
Engaging Panel Discussions
The conference also featured three dynamic panel discussions, each focusing on critical aspects of the nanotechnology landscape:
- Research Panel: With the theme, “Nanocellulose Characterization: Industry Needs, Methods, and Technology Gaps,” this session brought together producers, end-users, regulators, and characterization technique experts for an interactive discussion on the primary properties needed at the different stages of the supply-product line chain.
- End-User Panel: Industry experts shared their success stories and challenges in using cellulose based materials. Each panelists presented their technology and its commercial applications including benefits of using CNM in their products, shortcomings, requirements from suppliers, and their view of the future of cellulosic performance enhancing additives.
- Career Panel: Focused on career development in nanotechnology, this panel provided valuable insights for students and young professionals. Panelists discussed career paths, skill sets in demand, and strategies for success in this rapidly evolving field.
Celebrating Achievements: Division Awards and Student Poster Competition
A Conference highlight was TAPPI’s Nanotechnology Division Awards Ceremony which recognized and honored excellence in the field of nanotechnology. Congratulations to our winners:
- Leadership & Service Award: Heli Kangas, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland• Student Award: Emilien Fréville, Grenoble INP-Pagora
- Young Professional Award: Diego Gomez Maldonado, North Carolina State University• Distinguished Scientist/Technical Award: Jeffrey Youngblood, Purdue University
Another key highlight was the Student Poster Competition showcasing the innovative research conducted by emerging scientists. Winners included:
- 1st Place: Emilien Fréville from the University of Grenoble for his poster on " Thermodynamic Model Applied to Twin-Screw Extrusion for CNF Production."
- 2nd Place: Anderson Viega from the University of British Columbia for his research on " Tailored Deposition of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Onto Pulp Fiber Surfaces for Enhanced X-ray Tomography Contrast in Paper Products"
- 3rd Place: Sydney Brake from Auburn University for her poster on "Insecticide-functionalized CNF via Alkene Hydrothiolation."
Networking and Collaboration
In addition to the technical sessions and presentations, the conference provided ample opportunities for networking and collaboration. Attendees connected with peers during the conference dinner and dance, coffee breaks, luncheons, and receptions, fostering new partnerships and collaborations. The lively discussions and exchange of ideas underscored the conference’s role as a premier platform for advancing nanotechnology and renewable materials.
TAPPI's 2024 International Conference on Nanotechnology for Renewable Materials was a remarkable event that brought together the brightest minds in the field. Attendees walked away with new knowledge and business connections that will drive future innovations in the industry.
Visit our website for pictures and videos from the event.
