VTT is among Europe’s leading independent research organizations, specializing in biomass fractionation and processing technologies. Our state-of-the-art research and piloting facilities at VTT Bioruukki provide an ideal environment for developing and scaling innovative biomass processing solutions. The Bioruukki pilot center focuses on biomass fractionation and valorization and includes advanced laboratories for comprehensive biomass analytics. Main research facilities serving INSOIL projects are
- Nanocellulose pilot
- SUTCO: a unique surface treatment pilot line for coating in Espoo
- PLASCO: a tailored polymer piloting line in Tampere
- Biodegradability research laboratory
VTT is responsible for the production and selection of functional additives for the selected end use applications. These additives are mainly cellulose microfibrils (MFC) and lignin derivatives. VTT is also heavily involved in the biodegradation tests and pilot coating activities.
VTT has a strong and versatile team of best experts in the project. Competencies include project management, biomaterial fractionation, nanocellulose expertise, lignin grades, surface treatments and coating, biopolymers and polymer processing, biodegradation, standardisation and dissemination.
Main experts in the team are
- Mika Vähä-Nissi (coatings)
- Minna Vikman (biodegradation, standardisation)
- Miriam Kellock (lignins)
- Kirsi Immonen (polymers, compounds and plastic processing)
- Liji Sobhanadhas (lignocellulosic materials, project management)
- Panu Lahtinen (nanocellulose, project manager)
- Antti Korpela (mulches, lignocellulosic materials)
- Riitta Honkanen (project finance, Senior EU project specialist)