Vireo has been working for the past decade to establish safety and support commercialization for microfibrillated cellulose, cellulose nanocrystals and a host of other emerging biomaterials. Our lead scientists shared their experience and provided practical guidance in presentations, posters, discussion panels and networking events at the 2023 TAPPI Nanotechnology Conference.

James Ede was an invited participant in an excellent and informative panel discussion on international nanomaterial regulations and ongoing characterization challenges. He outlined methodologies for cellulose nanomaterial (CN) characterization, focusing on regulatory requirements for food and food contact applications in the European Union and the United States.

Jo Anne Shatkin discussed safety and regulatory aspects of novel biobased materials. The testing required to demonstrate compliance for novel materials can be extensive and routinely changes. She highlighted approaches to address the unexpected challenges that can emerge during regulatory submissions.

Kora Kukk highlighted the use of life cycle risk assessment (LCRA) to identify potential occupational, consumer and environmental exposure scenarios and outcomes with case studies for water filtration, food contact packaging, and food additive applications.

Surface modifications are critical for applications of CN in cement, packaging, coatings, polymers, cosmetics and other products. Yueyang (Brian) Zhang presented results from three-year project funded by P3Nano to develop a ‘Safer-by-Design Toolbox’ for early pre-commercial toxicity and risk screening of functionalized forms of cellulose.

Kimberly Ong highlighted pathways to authorize novel bio-based, sustainable and nanomaterials for applications in multiple jurisdictions, including North America, the European Union, and Asia. She shared our extensive experience in all these areas.

The TAPPI Nanotechnology Conference is the preeminent conference on nanotechnology as it relates to renewable nanomaterials and delivers exceptional technical value, networking opportunities and industry knowledge. We were delighted to be able to make a significant contribution to this event.