I found this May 10, 2011 news item about AboraNano’s plan to launch nine new research and development (R&D) projects on Nanowerk and noted that seven of these projects are going to be focused on uses for nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC).
(I have covered the topic of NCC several times, most recently in an interview with Mark MacLachlan in an interview about his work at the University of British Columbia in my March 25, 2011 posting and before that in an interview with Dr. Richard Berry of FP Innovations in my August 27, 2010 posting.)
From the news item,
ArboraNano, a member of Canada’s Business-Led Networks of Centres of Excellence program, is pleased to announce the launch of nine new research and development (R&D) projects targeting innovative paper grades, improved foams and nanocomposite developments using forest nanomaterials. Seven of these projects will focus on the use of non-toxic and environmentally-friendly nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC). The projects are to be carried out over the next two years by industrial scientists and engineers from the pulp and paper, automotive, machinery and engineering sectors, as well as researchers from Canadian universities and Canadian research institutes.
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ArboraNano’s contribution to these projects totals $3.35 million with matching contributions from industry and provincial organizations.
Here’s a brief overview of the types of projects being supported (from the news item),
Paper and packaging projects
Among the projects recently launched with pulp & paper partners, three will focus on creating “greener” paper grades, paperboards and coatings with performance properties that will compare favorably to existing products. …
Automotive projects
The goal of the two recently launched projects in the automotive industry is to develop performance-enhancing additives used in the manufacture of polyurethane foam and construction products particularly for load building in seat cushion foam. … [NOTE: Researchers in Brazil are working with nanocellulose fibres in pineapples and bananas to reinforce plastics for use in the automotive industry. March 28, 2011 posting]
Nanocomposite and nanofluids projects
The creation of novel nanocomposites is a key area of research for many of ArboraNano’s industrial partners. Two new projects aimed at supporting the development of nanocomposites have been launched. …
You can get a complete list of the new projects along with abstracts and the names of the principal investigators here.