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University of Tartu · Institute of Chemistry

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Lignocellulose at the Heart of Innovation

At the Wood Chemistry and Lignin Lab, we combine expertise in organic synthesis, physical organic chemistry, sonochemistry, supercritical extraction and computational chemistry to develop new ways of turning biomass into valuable materials. Our research focuses on transforming residues from the wood and seaweed industries into nanocellulose hydrogels and aerogels, films, lignin-based polymers, and composites for applications in food packaging, medical devices, electronics, and beyond. Bringing together early-career researchers and students, our young team connects fundamental science with practical innovation through industry collaborations and the creation of new startups.

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OUR RESEARCH FOCUS

WHAT ARE WE WORKING ON

Tailoring structure of lignin into reactive building blocks for bio-based materials.

Using ultrasound to break cellulose into nanofibrils for films, composites and barrier materials.

Combining both wood polymers into novel bio-based materials.

01 · LIGNIN

02 · CELLULOSE

03 · LIGNIN-CELLULOSE MIXTURE (LCM)

04 · SUPERCRITICAL EXTRACTION

Clean separation of biomass fractions using supercritical CO₂ and biobased solvents.

05 · SEAWEED

Efficient extraction of valuable components from seaweed.

06 · MOLECULAR SIMULATIONS

Studying molecular interactions and behaviour betveen solvents and organic reactivity, and components of lignicellulosic biomass

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