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WIST is an institute within the College of Natural Resources at UW-Stevens Point

WIST  News
March 2014
In This Issue
Market study evaluating value-added uses of pulp mill waste
Focal Point 2014 set for October 14
WIST hiring two research associates
Research, Education, and Laboratory Services
 

pilot paper machine 

 

 

 

WIST provides laboratory services, research and education to create sustainability solutions for businesses and organizations. Technology and ideas developed by WIST and its partners will spur economic growth in Wisconsin and the region and help all of us preserve a healthy environment for future generations.


Follow-up Links

 

Annual Report October 2013 

  

WIST leading a market study
of value-added uses for
pulp mill waste
John Baldus, WIST director of laboratory services
WIST Laboratory Services has put together a team to analyze market potential for two products made from waste streams of a pulp mill.
  
With funding provided by the Washington State Department of Commerce, Cosmo Specialty Fibers, in western Washington, commissioned the study to determine market potential for acetic acid condensate and cellulose-derived sugars.
  
The market study follows up on earlier work completed for Cosmo by WIST researchers and laboratory specialists. In 2013 WIST analyzed the sugar content of residual fiber and liquor generated at the Cosmo mill. The analysis found four sources of sugar at the mill that could be ideal for conversion to biomaterials. The market study will provide an overview of bioproduct options, identify potential new customer supply chains and discuss overall economic impacts.
  
The work with Cosmo is an important step for WIST, which has been developing new ways to create biofuels and bioproducts from lignocellulosic biomass. The goal is to move the work from laboratory to commercialization. Currently under development by WIST and partners is a Cellulose Pilot and Processing Laboratory to explore new sources of cellulose and new ways to process cellulose into chemicals, textiles, packaging, and fuels. The pilot-scale facility and research center will allow businesses to test processes in collaboration with UW-Stevens Point researchers.
  
For more information about the project or to learn how your business may gain from working with the Cellulose Pilot and Processing Lab, contact Eric Singsaas, WIST director of research by email at [email protected] or by phone at 715-346-4259.
  
To discuss WIST laboratory services contact John Baldus, WIST director of laboratory services, by email at [email protected] or by phone at 715-346-3265.
Save the Date
  
Focal Point 2014: Packaging at the Leading Edge will target the latest challenges and solutions in packaging and converting right across the value chain. Industry experts will discuss efforts to evidence sustainable sourcing of feedstocks, advances in production techniques, developments in specialty packaging materials, and end-of-life management challenges and choices. The conference provides networking opportunities throughout the day.
  
The conference builds on the successful Focal Point 2013 event, which addressed manufacturing, converting, end-use, and regulatory concerns in plastics, corrugated carton board and specialty paper. Watch for additional details including session descriptions and speaker profiles. But for now, mark your calendar to be at UW-Stevens Point October 14.
  
  
WIST hiring two researchers
for grant-funded research
  
In connection with development of a new cellulose pilot and processing laboratory, WIST is currently taking applications for two research associate positions.
  
A post-doctoral research associate in chemical engineering will work primarily on research into production of lignocellulose-derived sugars from cellulosic material and optimal product recovery from pilot plant scale bacterial and yeast fermentations. 
  
A post-doctoral research associate in microbiology will conduct research into conversion of lignocellulosic sugars into bio-based products by bacterial and yeast fermentations and enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose to fermentable sugars.
  
An economic development incentive grant from UW-System is providing major funding to create a cellulose pilot and processing lab. WIST is working with American Science and Technology in Wausau on the 18-month project. For complete position announcement and information on how to apply, see the UW-Stevens Point job vacancies listing.