Competencies

Capabilities

The Wood Valorization HUB research focuses on enhancing the mechanical valorisation of wood through an in-depth examination of wooden structures’ load-bearing capacity, stability, and fire resistance. Primary areas of investigation encompass the fire performance of structural elements, the behavior of adhesive joints, and the efficacy of various covering and insulation materials in fire conditions. Additionally, the research explores innovative methods for developing joints in wooden structures and assesses the potential for reusing structural wood materials.

In our studies on fire resistance, we evaluate the integrity of adhesive joints in engineered wood products, such as veneer-based products, glued laminated timber (glulam), cross-laminated timber, and I-beams, when subjected to elevated temperatures. Our team has developed specialized testing and calculation methodologies for adhesives, explicitly focusing on the fire resistance of glue joints in engineered wood. This research is crucial in enhancing safety and durability in wood-based construction.

We emphasize valorising lower-quality hardwood species, which have historically been underutilized. Our work investigates the integration of these species into innovative wood-polymer composite materials, thereby improving their properties for broader applications.

Our research initiatives include developing wood-bio-adhesive systems to produce safer and more sustainable engineered wood products, valorising lower-quality wood species via novel composite materials, enhancing life-cycle costing in wood construction through advanced service life planning methods, and creating bio-based, fire-resistant composite materials derived from secondary raw materials. These projects aim to increase wood-based products’ durability, sustainability, and overall performance in diverse environments.

We have significantly contributed to developing and revising design standards for wooden structures’ fire resistance. We have also been influential in creating national, European, and global professional manuals. Our ongoing research and development efforts are oriented toward the efficient and sustainable utilization of wood resources by innovating new, high-performance wood materials.

Facilities

The Wood Valorization HUB enhances wood-based structures’ strength, stiffness, and fire-resistance properties for various applications. Our facilities and research expertise support developing and optimizing engineered wood materials and structural systems, from concept to application.

Core Research and Development Competencies

• Fire-Resistant Design for Engineered Wood:
  We focus on creating innovative fire design methods for wood products, including I-joists, glulam, and cross-laminated timber. Our efforts include developing fire safety parameters for various structural materials and assembly types.
• Adhesive and Joint Performance Testing:
  Our team develops classification testing methods for adhesives used in engineered wood structures, emphasizing fire-resistance properties. We also research and enhance structural joint designs to improve durability and safety in timber structures.
• Innovative Veneer and Plywood Technologies:
  With advanced capabilities for producing and testing veneer-based products, we drive biocomposites, bonding quality, and adhesive performance innovation. Our research includes wood impregnation, finishing, and aging tests to ensure high-quality materials for various applications.
• Valorization of Low-Value Wood Species and Wood Waste:
  We explore the potential of lower-grade wood to develop new veneer-based products and enhance mechanical properties through processes like wood densification. We also focus on integrating wood residues and secondary raw materials into novel, sustainable materials, such as mycelium-based composites.

Comprehensive Testing and Development Facilities

Our facilities are equipped to test various wood materials, including veneers, wood-polymer composites, wood-plastic composites, and finished and in-process furniture components. We conduct multiple tests on bonding quality, mechanical performance, and durability to refine materials for enhanced longevity and functionality.

The Wood Valorization HUB also features a unique pilot-scale veneer and plywood manufacturing line. This facility allows us to precisely produce and develop veneer and plywood under controlled conditions, providing valuable insights into production parameters and material properties.

Through our comprehensive mechanical valorization capabilities, we are committed to driving sustainable wood innovation and delivering high-performance materials for modern construction and product design.

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Opportunities for Collaboration

For Industrial Partners

We invite industrial partners to collaborate with us in developing and testing of wood materials and load-bearing wood products. We focus on evaluating these product’s strength, stiffness, fire resistance, environmental impact, bonding quality, surface properties, thermal stability, air permeability and moisture resistance. Our expert team assesses the mechanical and physical properties of timber structures and provides comprehensive support to develop advanced materials and products that meet rigorous performance standards.

Key Areas of Collaboration

• Product and Technology Development:
  We offer piloting and testing services for new wood-based products and technologies, helping you refine and validate them before they are introduced to the market.
• Technical Support and Evaluation:
  Our facility conducts technical assessments for wood materials and timber constructions, ensuring you comply with industry standards.
• Training Programs:
  We deliver theoretical and practical training sessions in veneer and plywood technologies to enhance your team’s technical capabilities.

This partnership framework allows us to provide targeted R&D support, practical testing, and knowledge sharing, fostering innovation and excellence in wood-based materials and applications.

For Academic Partners

At Wood Valorization HUB, we actively collaborate with academic and research institutions focused on advancing wood and biocomposite technology. Our facilities and expertise provide a robust platform for both fundamental and applied research, driving innovation in sustainable wood-based materials and construction solutions.

Key Areas of Collaboration

• Wood, Veneer, and Plywood Innovation:
  We invite academic partners to collaborate with us in developing new wood materials. Together, we focus on cutting-edge veneer and plywood manufacturing processes, optimizing material properties and production techniques for various applications.
• Biocomposites and Sustainable Materials:
  We concentrate on development of biocomposites to promote sustainability in construction. Our collaborative projects enhance the structural and environmental performance of wood composites and constructions, contributing to resilient and eco-friendly building materials.
• Adhesives and Bonding Quality:
  We specialize in adhesive technology, researching bonding performance under various environmental conditions. This research is vital for creating durable, fire-resistant wood structures and offers valuable insights into adhesive properties and applications.
• Wood Aging Studies:
  We encourage partners to explore wood aging processes with us. These studies aim to enhance the durability of wood products, contributing to materials with improved longevity and quality.
• Wood and Wood Material’s Fire Resistance Studies:
  Test with us various fire protection agents and chemicals, coating technologies and fire resistance properties.

By engaging in these high-impact research and development opportunities, our academic partners can leverage our advanced facilities and technical expertise to contribute to scientific advancements that foster sustainability and innovation in wood-based construction and materials science.

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Capabilities

At Chemical Valorisation, we are committed to facilitating industries’ transition from reliance on fossil-based resources to sustainable bio-based alternatives. Our primary focus is the utilization of lignocellulosic biomass, notably cellulose and lignin, to devise innovative solutions relevant across multiple sectors, including packaging, automotive, construction, and high-tech textiles. Additionally, our efforts extend to creating materials for filtration, energy production, and storage, supporting industries in their shift toward greener practices.

In the field of wood chemical valorisation, we are at the forefront of research initiatives that explore lignin chemistry and the development of advanced materials. A significant emphasis is placed on converting lignin into functional materials, such as aerogels and cryogels, by replacing conventional phenolic compounds with lignin-based substitutes. These engineered materials are characterized by large specific surface areas and adjustable pore sizes, making them versatile for applications in energy storage and high-performance filtration.

Our efforts also extend to creating innovative adhesives designed to serve as alternatives to phenol-formaldehyde-based products, thus offering sustainable options for the construction and manufacturing sectors. Furthermore, our research into lignin purification and depolymerization contributes to producing platform chemicals that are essential building blocks for new bio-based materials. The integration of biomass-derived carbon nanomaterials in our innovations underscores our dedication to advancing sustainable technology.

The vision of the Wood Valorisation HUB extends beyond material innovation; it encompasses producing high-value products derived from lignin, specifically engineered to minimize environmental impact. These products, which find applications in biomedical fields, catalysis, and hybrid materials, are strategically developed to compete in the market while effectively using local biomass resources. By prioritizing sustainability and performance, we are actively driving the transformation of bioresources into advanced materials that contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future.

Through collaboration and innovation, we endeavor to establish a landscape in which bio-based solutions are crucial in addressing pressing global challenges.

Facilities

We provide state-of-the-art facilities and expertise for developing, testing, and optimizing polymeric materials and sustainable bio-based solutions. Our advanced laboratories allow us to conduct thorough physical, chemical, and technological analyses to support innovation in material science.

Core Research and Development Competencies

• Advanced Material Processing:
  We specialize in reactive extrusion technology, which enables the creation of innovative materials with customized properties. This process supports the development of sustainable composites and advanced polymeric solutions.
• Micro- and Nano-Fibrous Materials:
  Our expertise encompasses designing and manufacturing micro- and nano-fibrous materials for energy storage, energy harvesting, and filtration applications. These materials are essential for advancing clean energy and environmental technologies.
• Sustainable Plastics and Composites:
  We work on solutions for recycling plastics and producing composites from waste plastics and secondary raw materials. Our goal is to minimize environmental impact while enhancing material performance.
• Lignin-Based Innovations:
  By purifying and depolymerizing lignin, we produce platform chemicals and functional materials such as aerogels, cryogels, and carbon nanomaterials. These innovations serve as renewable alternatives to traditional fossil-based components.
• Surface Chemistry and Adhesive Development:
  We improve material performance through advanced surface chemical modifications. Additionally, we design next-generation adhesives that can replace phenol-formaldehyde-based products, promoting more sustainable industrial applications.

Comprehensive Testing and Development Facilities:

Our facilities can perform detailed physical, chemical, and biodegradability testing of polymeric materials and composites. We also conduct technological assessments to ensure the viability and performance of innovative materials. From analyzing lignin-based compounds to characterizing advanced fibers and carbon nanomaterials, our laboratories are designed for precision and scalability.

By combining state-of-the-art equipment with our team’s expertise, we offer comprehensive testing, development, and optimization capabilities to meet our partners’ unique needs. Together, we are shaping a sustainable future through advanced material science.

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Opportunities for Collaboration

For Industrial Partners

We collaborate with industrial stakeholders to develop innovative product development, process optimization, and material testing solutions. Combining our expertise in sustainable technologies with your objectives, we help transform renewable resources into high-value products while enhancing efficiency and minimizing environmental impact.

Key Areas of Collaboration

• Product and Technology Development:
  We assist in creating innovative products and technologies, guiding our partners from initial concepts through pilot-scale testing and implementation.
• Biodegradability Testing:
  We offer biodegradability testing for chemicals and materials, helping partners explore sustainable alternatives and improve their environmental performance.
• Process Optimization for Sustainability:
  We work together to enhance chemical reaction schemes and processes, making them more resource-efficient and aligned with sustainable practices.
• Biomass Valorisation:
  Our team specializes in converting biomass, particularly lignin, into valuable products, unlocking new opportunities for utilizing renewable resources.
• Reduction of Process Mass Intensity (PMI):
  We help refine chemical processes to lower resource intensity, increase efficiency, and reduce waste, promoting cost-effective and sustainable production.

At the Wood Valorisation HUB, we aim to create innovative, bio-based solutions that drive sustainability and success. We are committed to building partnerships that deliver meaningful impact and value.

For Academic Partners

We collaborate with academic institutions to advance fundamental and applied research in polymeric materials, biopolymers, and lignin chemistry. By combining our expertise with yours, we aim to push the boundaries of sustainable materials development and innovative chemical processes to address significant scientific and societal challenges.

Key Areas of Collaboration

• Sustainable Chemical Processes:
  We design and optimize chemical processes to ensure resource efficiency and environmental sustainability, aligning with green and circular chemistry principles.
• Lignin Functionalization:
  Our research focuses on developing innovative chemical methods to functionalize lignin. These methods enable the creation of novel lignin-based materials with advanced properties for various industrial applications.
• Phenolic Compounds from Lignin:
  We collaborate on developing methods to extract phenolic compounds from lignin, providing sustainable alternatives to fossil-based products for diverse uses.
• Biodegradable Materials:
  We work with academic partners to design and synthesize biodegradable compounds and materials tailored for industrial applications, promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impact.
• Comprehensive Studies on Lignin Chemistry:
  We offer opportunities to jointly explore and develop new methods for lignin chemical modification, targeting the creation of high-value functional materials or pathways for depolymerization to produce platform phenolic compounds.

Let’s work together to drive cutting-edge research and create transformative solutions. The Wood Valorisation HUB is your partner in achieving groundbreaking advances in sustainable chemistry and materials science.

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Capabilities

At Wood Biochemical Valorisation, we drive innovation through advanced biochemical processes and develop novel bio-based solutions. We use microbial cell factories to transform locally available forestry residues and food industry by-products into value-added products. With our metabolic modeling and synthetic biology expertise, we design next-generation microbial cell factories that enhance efficiency and sustainability.

We utilize our lab-scale bioreactor platform for process characterization and optimization. Additionally, we implement the Design-Build-Test-Learn cycle for cell factory design and bioprocess optimization.

A critical aspect of our work involves discovering and characterizing biomass-modifying microbial strains and enzymes. By isolating extremophilic organisms and analyzing their metabolomes and secretomes, we identify promising candidates for industrial applications to modify lignocellulosic biomass. We express, purify, and characterize recombinant enzymes that can process and transform lignocellulosic materials to achieve this.

We aim to provide sustainable alternatives to traditional biomass depolymerization processes by leveraging microbial strains and enzyme technologies. This approach unlocks new possibilities for biomass valorization and industrial-scale applications.

Facilities

Our facilities specialize in developing and optimizing microbial strains, enzymes, and bioprocesses for sustainable biomass valorization. Equipped with state-of-the-art tools, our research infrastructure supports various applications, from strain screening and enzyme engineering to bioprocess optimization and metabolic modeling.

Core Research and Development Competencies

• Microbial Strain Development and Screening:
  We offer high-throughput, automated platforms for screening microbial strains, including bacteria and non-conventional yeasts such as Rhodotorula toruloides and Yarrowia lipolytica. Our facilities are designed for small-scale strain and growth media optimization and scaling up to bench-scale production, enabling efficient strain selection for industrial applications. Lastly, our automated protein engineering facility can tailor-make enzymes for specific uses.
• Enzyme Design and Engineering:
  Our protein engineering capabilities allow us to design and produce custom enzymes for biomass depolymerization and other bioconversion processes. We provide recombinant protein expression, purification, and characterization services to ensure enzyme functionality for targeted applications in biomass valorization.
• Metabolic Modeling and Process Optimization:
  We utilize advanced metabolic modeling tools, including genome-scale models, to study and optimize microbial metabolism for efficient biomass conversion. Our lab-scale bioreactor platform supports process characterization and optimization, enabling us to fine-tune bioprocesses for scalability and industrial application.
• Extremophilic Organisms and Enzyme Screening:
  Our research focuses on isolating extremophilic microorganisms from extreme environments and studying their metabolic pathways and enzymes. These organisms and their enzymes hold significant potential for industrial biomass valorization, offering robust solutions for challenging processing conditions.

Comprehensive Testing and Development Facilities

Our laboratories are equipped with cutting-edge metabolic analysis technologies, including HPLC, metabolomics, and secretomes, which enable comprehensive studies of microbial strains and their metabolic profiles. Additionally, our X-ray crystallography facility allows detailed enzyme structure and function analysis, providing valuable insights for enzyme optimization. Our fully automated, data-driven bioengineering platform allows high-throughput screening of microbial strains.

Through our advanced facilities, we support a range of research and industrial applications, driving the development of sustainable bio-based products and processes. We are committed to delivering innovative solutions for biomass valorization and advancing the future of bioengineering.

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Opportunities for Collaboration

For Industrial Partners

We invite industrial partners to collaborate in transforming wood and forestry residues into high-value, bio-based products. We focus on developing efficient microbial cell factories and innovative enzyme solutions to support sustainable biomass valorization.

Key Areas of Collaboration

• Strain and Enzyme Development:
  Our team specializes in developing and optimizing microbial strains, including conventional and non-conventional yeasts and bacteria, to meet specific production goals. We offer high-throughput strain screening and growth media testing, with small to bench scale scalability options.
• Bioprocess Optimization and Cultivation Strategies:
  We support partners in optimizing batch, fed-batch, and continuous cultivation processes to maximize production yields. Our lab-scale bioreactor platform enables precise process characterization, helping you fine-tune bioprocesses for industrial applications.
• Enzyme Customization and Protein Engineering:
  Through our automated protein engineering facility, we tailor-make enzymes for your unique application needs, from biomass depolymerization to specific industrial transformations. We also supply raw materials for enzymatic and microbiological testing, ensuring a complete valorization pathway.
• Comprehensive R&D Support:
  Our partnership framework provides access to targeted R&D resources, practical testing, and technology transfer, fostering innovation in bio-based product development.

Together, we can drive sustainable solutions for biomass processing and advanced industrial applications.

For Academic Partners

We invite industrial partners to collaborate in transforming wood and forestry residues into high-value, bio-based products. We focus on developing efficient microbial cell factories and innovative enzyme solutions to support sustainable biomass valorization.

Key Areas of Collaboration

• Microbial Strain Development and Synthetic Biology:
  We offer expertise in developing cutting-edge synthetic biology tools for non-conventional yeasts like Rhodotorula toruloides and Yarrowia lipolytica. Our team can support your strain optimization and metabolic engineering research to enhance microbial performance for biomass conversion.
• Enzyme Engineering and Characterization:
  We specialize in enzyme design and screening extremophilic organisms for enzymes with a high potential for biomass valorization. Our facility provides access to advanced protein engineering techniques, including recombinant protein expression and purification, to design enzymes tailored for specific applications.
• Structural and Functional Enzyme Analysis:
  We offer in-depth studies of enzyme structure and function using state-of-the-art techniques like X-ray crystallography. Our research can provide valuable insights into enzyme mechanisms, helping to unlock new biocatalysts for industrial applications.
• Biomass Valorization Research:
  We provide resources for studying microbial adaptation to extreme environments and discovering novel bacterial strains capable of processing lignocellulosic biomass. Our research efforts focus on maximizing the potential of these organisms and their enzymes for sustainable biomass conversion.
• Collaborative R&D Support:
  Partner with us to leverage our expertise and facilities for in-depth research, innovation, and technology development.
  Together, we can advance scientific understanding and create new, sustainable solutions for biomass valorization and bio-based product development.

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Capabilities

Wood Analytics focuses on researching and developing technologies for the fractionation of raw materials, particularly biomass sourced from Estonia, into pure polymers. Our work emphasizes the analytical chemistry of raw lignocellulose, biopolymers and biomass valorisation products by advanced characterisation methods and cutting-edge analytical instrumentation. We developed, set-up and validated a variety of analytical procedures for wood and bio-based products analysis, including determination of lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose, metals and extractives contents, characterisation of structure by FTIR, NMR, MS/MS and molecular mass distribution, analysis of OH-group and monolignol contents, which are crucial for developing innovative functional materials for synthetic applications.

We strive to contribute to a safer and healthier world by promoting the Green Analytical Chemistry concept in our research. We create analytical techniques that minimize the use of hazardous solvents, reagents, and other materials that can pose risks to both individuals and the ecosystem. Our priority is to develop rapid, energy-efficient methodologies that are non-destructive, thereby minimizing or eliminating the need for sample preparation. For that, we apply statistical experimental design (DOE) to decrease the number of experiments during the process optimization stage and develop non-destructive (sample preparation minimized or eliminated) cutting-edge analytical technologies, combined with chemometric tools (multidimensional data analysis and modeling), which are almost free of hazardous chemicals and wastes, fast and provide accurate, reliable and consistent results.

Our expertise extends beyond the laboratory as we collaborate on interdisciplinary R&D projects with various research groups, companies, and global partners. Through these partnerships, we aim to advance green chemistry, enhance sustainability in material development, and support industrial and environmental applications. By integrating cutting-edge instrumentation, chemometric tools, and sustainable practices, we provide innovative solutions that drive progress in diverse fields, including environmental analysis, food safety, and clinical research.

Facilities

We offer advanced analytics capabilities through our state-of-the-art facilities, designed to support a wide range of research and development needs in the fields of sustainable materials and bioresource valorisation. Our well-equipped laboratories enable precise sample preparation, comprehensive analysis, and in-depth characterization of organic and inorganic materials, ensuring high-quality results for academic and industrial applications.

Core Research and Development Competencies

• Sample Preparation:
  We employ various methods to prepare samples, including lyophilization, chemical and mechanical decomposition, and mineralization in a microwave oven. These techniques are tailored to the specific needs of each analysis, ensuring optimal results for different sample types.
• Spectroscopic Analysis:
  Our laboratories are equipped with advanced spectroscopic instruments, such as UV-Vis, fluorescence, and infrared spectroscopy, which allow us to investigate transition metal ions, conjugated organic compounds, and biological macromolecules. For more detailed structural analysis, we also utilize Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to identify and examine organic compounds, macromolecules, and polymers.
• Elemental and Composition Analysis:
  We specialize in both trace-level and macro-element analysis, using instruments such as Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AASG), Atomic Absorption Flame Spectroscopy (AASF), and elemental analyzers (CHNOS). These tools enable precise measurement of elemental composition across a wide concentration range.
• Chromatography:
  We operate several gas and liquid chromatographs equipped with various detection modes, including UV/DAD, RID, fluorescence, and MS/MS, to accurately determine the composition of both organic and inorganic substances. For high-resolution measurements, we also utilize an ESI-Q-TOF, ESI-QQQ and ESI-IT mass spectrometers, which provide detailed insights into the molecular structure and composition of complex samples.

With these powerful tools, we can comprehensively test materials and chemicals, delivering detailed characterizations that drive innovation in sustainable technologies and bio-based materials. Our commitment to providing top-tier analytical capabilities ensures that our partners receive the highest level of support in advancing research and developing new sustainable solutions. Let us help elevate your projects with our cutting-edge facilities and expert insights.

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Opportunities for Collaboration

For Industrial Partners

We invite industrial partners to collaborate with us in advancing the field of wood analytics and the development of sustainable materials. We use using cutting-edge analytical technologies to characterize and transform biomass into high-value products, thereby supporting innovation across various industries.

Key Areas of Collaboration

• Advanced Analytical Services:
  We provide precise elemental and compositional analysis, spectroscopic studies, and molecular characterization using state-of-the-art instruments, including NMR, FTIR, and chromatography systems. These services offer detailed insights to drive material innovation and optimize processes.
• Technology Development and Testing:
  Our laboratories are equipped to support R&D projects at both laboratory and semi-industrial scales. We specialize in the fractionation of biomass into pure polymers and the development of functional materials, enabling our partners to explore novel applications and sustainable solutions.
• Customized R&D Support:
  We collaborate with industry partners to design tailored analytical protocols, optimize processes through experimental design (DOE), and provide comprehensive support for product development. Our goal is to integrate advanced analytics into your innovation pipeline.

Together, we can unlock the full potential of wood and biomass through innovative analytics and sustainable practices, creating a greener future for both industry and the environment.

For Academic Partners

We invite research partners to collaborate with us in pioneering advanced analytical techniques and driving innovation in sustainable material development. Our expertise in wood analytics enables us to support cutting-edge research initiatives.

Key Areas of Collaboration

• Development of Analytical Techniques:
  We partner with researchers to design and implement novel analytical methods, utilizing state-of-the-art technologies such as spectroscopy, chromatography, and mass spectrometry. These methods facilitate the precise characterization of biomass components, functional materials, and complex systems.
• Joint R&D Projects:
  We collaborate on interdisciplinary research initiatives by offering our expertise in biomass fractionation, polymer analysis, and the creation of functionalizable materials. Our well-equipped facilities support experimental work at both laboratory and semi-industrial scales, enabling comprehensive scientific investigations.
• Methodology Optimization and Training:
  Our team assists in optimizing experimental designs, developing non-destructive testing methods, and providing training in advanced analytical techniques. By sharing knowledge and resources, we promote innovation and enhance research capabilities.

Together, we can advance the frontiers of analytical science, creating sustainable solutions and new opportunities for bioresource valorisation and material development.

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