TAPPI's Nano 2024 Conference: Pioneering Sustainable Innovations

TAPPI’s 2024 International Conference on Nanotechnology for Renewable Materials (Nano), June 10-14 in Atlanta, GA, will showcase some of the most groundbreaking advancements in nanotechnology for renewable materials. Among the highly anticipated presentations is "Revolutionizing Sustainability: Unveiling Re-Nano™, a Breakthrough in Eco-Friendly Nanocellulose Sourcing" by Bjorn Schulz of Re-Fresh Global. This presentation, part of the Nanomaterial Production – Emerging Technologies 1 session on June 11, promises to captivate attendees with its innovative approach to sustainability in the textile and packaging industries.

Schulz will introduce a pioneering process that redefines sustainable cellulose recovery from post-consumer textile recycling within industrial markets. As the demand for environmentally conscious solutions grows, the approach utilizes white biotechnology to separate mixed cotton/polyester textile waste into nano-structured cellulose products and sugar-based platform chemicals, such as bioethanol, PLA, PHA, PHB, and also reclaims the thermoplastic fraction. This strategy empowers the textile industry to establish a circular economy.

At the core of this innovation is Re-Nano™, a nano-structured cellulose product derived from cotton through enzymatic hydrolysis. Re-Nano™ combines cutting-edge nanobiotechnology with a strong commitment to reducing environmental impact. Its key features include:

  • Production of Bionanomaterials from Textile Waste: Creating commercial packaging solutions with superior strength, flexibility, and barrier properties from textile waste.
  • Circular Economy Establishment: Promoting a circular economy by ensuring materials are recycled, separated, purified, and re-engineered.
  • Carbon Footprint Reduction: Significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with biotechnological production, transportation, and disposal.
  • Versatility and Customization: Potential applications in coatings, paints, composite additives, and electronic applications, particularly where transparency is essential.

Schulz will also discuss Re-Fresh Global's design philosophy, which focuses on local micro-factory concepts instead of large-scale gigafactories. This approach allows for the recovery of local materials that are recycled, separated, purified, and seamlessly integrated into existing biorefinery platform material flows. This strategy aims to close material loops, minimize wastes, and maximize resource efficiency, making Re-Nano™ a sustainable choice for businesses looking to adopt eco-friendly practices.

Join us at TAPPI Nano 2024 to explore Re-Nano™ and other cutting-edge technologies that are paving the way for a sustainable future in nanotechnology and renewable materials. Also, experience multiple networking opportunities to help you build stronger business connections. Visit our website to view all presentations, workshops, keynotes and to register.