biomaterials

Jul 2, 2025

Forest Biomaterials Researchers Developing Sustainable Alternative to Plastic Foam Packaging

The fiber-based material, which is fully recyclable and biodegradable, could someday replace plastic foam materials used in cushioning and insulation for packaging.

May 6, 2025

Forest Biomaterials Professor Nathalie Lavoine Wins NSF CAREER Award

Lavoine will use the five-year, nearly $750,000 grant to advance her research on cellulose nanocrystals for the creation of sustainable colors and materials for various products.

Nov 9, 2023

AI-Powered Waste Management System to Revolutionize Recycling

The system is expected to streamline the collection of non-recyclable waste for conversion into renewable products, energy and fuel.

Oct 18, 2023

Mimicking a Bird’s Sticky Spit to Create Cellulose Gels

A small bird's nest-making inspires a nontoxic process for making cellulose gels.

Sep 18, 2023

NC State Researchers Developing Climate-Friendly Solution for Pulp and Paper Industry

NC State researchers will lead a $2.6 million project aimed at developing a nature-based, renewable technology to reduce the carbon emissions of kraft pulping.

Mar 22, 2023

Sargassum is a Growing Problem. Researchers May Have a Solution

Funded with a $2.25 million grant from the Department of Energy, NC State researchers will collect sargassum and combine it with wood waste to produce sustainable aviation fuel and battery-grade graphite.

Aug 1, 2022

5 Benefits of Building with Cross-Laminated Timber

NC State expert Steve Kelley breaks down the benefits of using cross-laminated timber for construction —from fire resistance and seismic durability to carbon sequestration.

May 12, 2022

Why Some Fabrics Shed More Microfibers Than Others

NC State researchers studied how treating fabrics with dyes, softeners and other chemicals impacts both the production and degradation of cotton microfibers.

Apr 21, 2022

Bio-Inspired Textiles Promote Sustainable Fashion

NC State researchers are using nanocrystals extracted from wood to produce iridescent clothing.

Mar 21, 2022

New Biomaterial Could Save Our Oceans From Plastic Pollution

NC State researchers have discovered how to convert leftover sawdust powder and agro-residues into a Styrofoam-like packaging material.