Nanofiber research center launched during Paper Days
The University of Maine this week launched a new research facility it says will boost the state's paper industry with a new product.
The Bangor Daily News reported the university's new Cellulose Nanofiber Pilot Plant will be able to produce up to a ton of nanofiber per day, which researchers say could lead to technologies like flexible electronics and wallpaper that can display television images.
Researchers began exploring the wood chip-based technology nearly four years ago but have not been able to produce the product on a large scale.
The center, which is funded with a $1.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service, will now advance study of the potential uses of the cellulose nanofibers.
Sean Ireland, manager of new technologies and market ventures for Verso Paper Inc., told the BDN that Maine's extensive forestry experience and resources position the state to lead in the nanofiber industry.
The new university center will provide samples of its nanofiber projects to companies in the pulp and paper industry to collaborate on new products and discover potential uses for it.
The announcement of the center was made during the 63rd annual Paper Days, hosted by the UMaine Pulp and Paper Foundation Wednesday and Thursday.
Editor's note: This item has been changed to correct the spelling of Sean Ireland's name. We regret the error.
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