Learn about the paradigm shift towards a circular bio-based era that is imperative due to our over-reliance on fossil-based resources. The FinnCERES Flagship, hosted by the Academy of Finland, VTT, and Aalto University, is developing novel, sustainable uses of natural resources that outperform their fossil-based counterparts. Ground-breaking discoveries are being made in new biorefinery concepts, functional textiles, smart packaging, diagnostics, as well as energy harvesting and storage.

The Fibre and Beyond documentary explores the latest discoveries, innovations, and applications in the world of bio-based materials. Scientists from various research institutions present exciting news about the potential of advanced bio-based materials in replacing non-renewable raw materials and solving pressing challenges. For example, the documentary presents the potential of wood-based materials in preventing the spread of pathogens and alleviating the environmental burden of the textile industry.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented changes to our world. The swift and widespread transmission of pathogens has created an urgent need for antimicrobial and antiviral materials in the medical field.
In the midst of the pandemic, researchers at Aalto University and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland began to envision a wood-based self sterilizing material.

Record breaking super black wood
A team at Aalto Univesity and VTT has has harnessed the natural properties of wood to develop a bio-based alternative to existing super black materials. This innovative approach promises to be a strong, nontoxic material that is capable of absorbing an astounding 99.65% of light, in effect breaking the record for the blackest solid wood material ever reported.

Discover how the circular economy principles observed in non-human ecosystems, such as the repurposing of everything and generating no waste, can be translated into bio-based materials engineering to make high-value products while using less raw material. See how bio-inspired materials engineering is utilized to develop innovative solutions for packaging, construction, and for tackling environmental challenges like microplastics emissions and dye pollution.

In this ambitious FinnCERES project, a multidisciplinary team of scientists from VTT and Aalto University is developing fast, highly sensitive, and selective small molecule sensors that can detect drugs with incredible precision. The key ingredients in this technology is the combination of #carbonnanoparticles with bio-based #nanocellulose. The nanocellulose helps to disperse the carbon nanotubes which in turn makes a huge boost on small molecule detection.

FinnCERES Foamwood project has developed novel methods for manufacturing bio-based foams for the purpose of making laminated structures with extraordinary mechanical properties. The project combines the novel bio-based materials development and foam physics expertise of both VTT and Aalto University.

Improved cellulose nanofibril hydrogels with bio-based bark extract
The bark extract creates a dense and stable hydrogel structure with nanocellulose where the phenolic compounds strengthen the hydrogel and restrict disintegration while the salt component reduces the swelling of the hydrogel in water.

The FinnCERES Bioptics project is bringing a fresh perspective to biomedical technology by utilizing cellulose to craft optical fibers. This innovative approach combines environmental consciousness with scientific advancement, aiming to introduce new tools for medical diagnostics that are both biocompatible and kind to our planet.

This video highlights the environmental impact of the textile industry and the need to find sustainable alternatives to cotton and oil-based fibers. The use of wood-based fibers, such as those produced with novel solvents or through mechanical conversion of pulp, can significantly reduce water usage and pollution. Finnish researchers and companies are at the forefront of developing these new, more sustainable textile fibers. The video emphasizes the importance of recycling textiles and making informed choices as consumers.

Researchers at Aalto University have found new ways to use wood for energy without burning it. In lithium batteries, bio-based carbon can offer enhanced performance compared to fossil carbon. The researchers have also studied the replacement of glass with transparent wood in solar panels and utilized nanocellulose to improve their structure, resulting in enhanced energy capture.

Discover how wood-based compounds can provide a natural path in the fight against bacteria and viruses without damaging the microbes that are important to us. Researchers in Finland are studying the properties of lignin and cellulose nanoparticles as well as bark extractives to develop natural antimicrobial coatings.