Europe’s first pilot plant for nanocellulose is being planned by MoRe Research, along with the Swedish pulp and paper company Holmen, and the SP Technical Research Institute. The pilot plant will be based on technology developed by Melodea, as Israeli-based startup that is working to extract nanocellulose from the pulp and paper process. The pilot plant will be located adjacent to MoRe’s facility in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden.

A major component of pulp and paper sludge is tiny cellulose fibers that are usually washed away during paper manufacturing. Melodea’s technology recovers these fibers and convert them to nanocellulose.

This news reinforces several recurring themes in global biobased manufacturing:

  • Pulp and paper companies are increasingly exploring ways to make higher-end products from current processes.
  • Global production of nanocellulose will continue to grow rapidly.
Posted in Blog