"Paper and its many derivatives are a natural part of our daily lives. But what about the residues created by the paper industry?

The paper industry generates, among other things, what is known as paper sludge. This looks like papier-mâché like papier-mâché, and comprises the "leftovers" from several stages in the papermaking process. What do with this sludge? Are landfilling, land application and incineration still the best best options for disposal in 2024?

The answer is no. Since paper is made from wood, we have succeeded in extracting various molecules from the paper sludge originally contained in this biomass. These molecules are called cellulose and lignin, among others.

As part of this project, you'll have the chance to explore 2 new ways of using paper sludge to offer greener alternatives. You'll be developing an innovative glue from cellulose, and producing an insulating foam from lignin to replace the petroleum-derivedproducts usually contained in it. Become an agent of change!