We were thrilled to have 28 attendees for our workshop “Practical Safety Strategies for Bio/Nano Technology Commercialization” at the 2018 TAPPI International Conference on Nanotechnology for Renewable Materials! Conference attendance also set a record. The keynote speakers of this year’s conference (Alper Kiziltas of Ford Motor Company, Yinyong Li of Treaty, LLC, Akira Isogai of the University of Tokyo, and Michael Goergen of the U.S. Endowment for Forestry & Communities, Inc.) each offered unique perspectives and insights about the current and forthcoming commercial developments with cellulose nanomaterials. Professor Hiroyuki Yano was wearing his nanocellulose foam Asics! Ford is investigating diverse applications of cellulose nanomaterials, including CNC in tires. Jack Miller discussed commercial applications in textiles (reinforced synthetic fibers, coatings, biopolymers, moisture wicking, UV blocking, clothing, automotive, and carpeting) as well as paper and board (magazine paper, packaging, and liquid cartons). Exciting commercial applications from Japan were showcased by Professor Akira Isogai (see table below).

The end-user forum was also interesting and highlighted how companies are setting requirements for nanomaterials.  We look forward to seeing everyone next year at the 2019 conference in Tokyo/Chiba, Japan!