Research

Pulp, paper and packaging: Pulping and bleaching processes for the production of fibers are developed and optimized. Furthermore, the improvement of recycling processes for waste paper as well as the utilisation of production residues, e.g. for biogas, are investigated.
Biorefinery processes: New technologies are investigated with which basic chemicals and polymers can be obtained from wood and other lignocelluloses. The aim is to achieve a complete raw material utilisation without waste. The processing of biogenic residues and wastes from agriculture, horticulture, and landscaping as well as waste wood is also considered.
Bio-based polymers and materials: The isolated structural components of wood are also used as polymers. Cellulose, hemicelluloses and lignin are chemically modified and their properties optimized for different applications. The focus is on thermoplastic materials, binders and materials for 3D printing.
Analysis of bioresources, process streams and bio-based products: Our experience and modern analytical equipment enable us to comprehensively characterize raw materials, processes and products. In addition, methods of chemotaxonomy based on extract profiles are developed. Thus, as a contribution to species protection, endangered tropical timber species should be identified in end products.