Development of Flexible and Green Processes Based on Cold Plasma Technologies for the Functionalization of Lignocellulosic Fibers

PROJECT COST:

271 740 $

PRIMA CONTRIBUTION:

108 696 $

PROJECT DETAILS:

To expand the use of lignocellulosic fibers derived from forest biomass in both conventional and emerging applications, several critical challenges must be overcome, including: (i) their limited dispersibility and compatibility in hydrophobic media, (ii) their susceptibility to degradation at elevated temperatures, and (iii) their availability in diverse physical forms, such as powders, films, flakes, wood chips, and suspensions.

In this project, we will capitalize on our expertise, technical know-how, and state-of-the-art infrastructure in atmospheric-pressure cold plasma technologies to develop innovative plasma-based processes for the surface functionalization of wood fibers. Atmospheric-pressure plasmas offer a range of advantages that directly address key challenges encountered by the forest products industry, including high-throughput processing, seamless integration into large-scale manufacturing, versatility in surface modification, low-temperature operation, and strong compliance with current environmental and occupational health and safety standards.

More specifically, we will use a planar dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma reactor in combination with a microwave plasma jet to deposit multifunctional nanostructured coatings onto films and filaments composed of lignocellulosic fibers. These coatings will impart advanced functionalities and significantly enhance the value of the resulting materials. In parallel, we will investigate an innovative plasma-assisted approach in which plasmas are generated within, or brought into direct contact with, reactive liquids to functionalize suspended fibers and tailor their interfacial properties and compatibility with targeted media.

This research will establish new, environmentally sustainable pathways for the advanced modification of lignocellulosic materials, enabling the development of high-value bio-based products for a wide range of industrial applications.