Scholarly Works, Sustainable Biomaterials

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Research articles, presentations, and other scholarship

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Silica-Biomacromolecule Interactions: Toward a Mechanistic Understanding of Silicification
McCutchin, Christina A.; Edgar, Kevin J.; Chen, Chun-Long; Dove, Patricia M. (American Chemical Association, 2024-10-09)
Silica-organic composites are receiving renewed attention for their versatility and environmentally benign compositions. Of particular interest is how macromolecules interact with aqueous silica to produce functional materials that confer remarkable physical properties to living organisms. This Review first examines silicification in organisms and the biomacromolecule properties proposed to modulate these reactions. We then highlight findings from silicification studies organized by major classes of biomacromolecules. Most investigations are qualitative, using disparate experimental and analytical methods and minimally characterized materials. Many findings are contradictory and, altogether, demonstrate that a consistent picture of biomacromolecule-Si interactions has not emerged. However, the collective evidence shows that functional groups, rather than molecular classes, are key to understanding macromolecule controls on mineralization. With recent advances in biopolymer chemistry, there are new opportunities for hypothesis-based studies that use quantitative experimental methods to decipher how macromolecule functional group chemistry and configuration influence thermodynamic and kinetic barriers to silicification. Harnessing the principles of silica-macromolecule interactions holds promise for biocomposites with specialized applications from biomedical and clean energy industries to other material-dependent industries.
The Sensitive Question of Commoditization in the Mass Timber Panel Industry
Muszyński, Lech; Larasatie, Pipiet; Hansen, Eric N. (2022-07-10)
The mass-timber panel industry is an exception in the traditional commodity-oriented forest products industry at large, even if one compares it to other sophisticated engineered wood products (EWP). All structural cross-laminated mass-timber panels discussed are specialty products, by which we understand that all panels are custom produced and fabricated for specific projects. The large dimensions (up to 20 m x 4 m) and mass (up to 5.5 metric tons) as well as the embedded value of individual panels makes finishing and cutting blank panels to needed sizes at the construction site practically impossible. Therefore, prefabrication of structural mass-timber panels with robotized machinery capable of handling massive panels is a necessity, not an option. Mass-timber panel-based construction would not be possible otherwise. However, prefabricated panels may only be produced once the entire construction project is finished to the minute detail from architectural and engineering design, to construction site logistics. This quite naturally provides a high premium on integration of the design, manufacturing and construction aspects of the project and on tight collaboration of all parties from very beginning. The situation provides incentives for vertical integration of companies along the supply chain, and discourages production of commodity blank panels not assigned to any specific project. Currently, the industry is not prepared to carry the cost of intermittent storage of massive panels and of waste generated if panel “blanks” would have to be remanufactured for specific projects. Producing prefabricated panels finished for specific design and on-time delivery to the construction site is, for the time being, the most efficient solution. While there are companies that offer prefabrication services on “commoditized panels,” it remains to be seen how they will fare. All these circumstances define the mass timber panel industry as a specialty industry, with products delivered to the market not as standardized panels but as building shells or even finished buildings. There are intrinsic barriers preventing commoditization of massive cross-laminated panels, even in most developed markets. This does not mean that commoditization is not possible in the future. However, we expect commoditization to follow a pathway of highly modular designs rather than blank panels. The presentation will focus on both sides of the equation: contemporary barriers preventing commoditization of structural mass-timber panels and on potential paths to certain level of commoditization in mass-timber panel industry considered more generally as one in which production of panels is a step in delivering of a building as an end product.
Indonesian furniture producers: Change makers or change takers?
Larasatie, Pipiet (2018-06-28)
A well-known furniture making region in Jepara, Indonesia, has a story to tell. Since the 19th century, the region has developed as an industrial district, creating many opportunities for subsidiary activities and other kinds of industries while supporting the livelihood of 4-5 million Indonesians. Jepara, with a total area of 167.8 km2 (64.7 sq. mi.), has nearly 12,000 wood-based furniture workshops, showrooms and warehouses, all of which employ approximately 120,000 workers, process 0.9 million cubic meters of wood per year, and account for 26% of the district’s economy. However, research shows that although Jepara’s furniture export is increasing, continued growth is not sustainable. This situation could jeopardize an industry that supports millions of people. This paper looks at the wooden furniture industry as a low-technology, resource- and labor-intensive sector in facing globalization. Therefore, it is important to understand how small-scale furniture producers are being affected by globalization. Are they change makers or, the opposite, change takers? Can they benefit from globalization? The question is asked in response to value chain inequality. Although the value added in Jepara’s furniture production is relatively high, profit distribution is inefficient and inequitable. As an integral part of Jepara’s Furniture Value Chain (FVC) project, this study was designed to gather information on how furniture production value chain actors might react to potential scenarios regarding the ways in which small-scale furniture producers could best thrive in an era of globalization. Four potential scenarios were considered through a literature analysis: (1) Fair Trade, (2) Green Furniture, (3) Vertical Integration, and (4) Capacity Building of Small-scale Producers. The purpose of this research involves determining which of these four scenarios would be the most relevant to improve the performance of small-scale furniture enterprises in Jepara. Recommended strategies include green furniture labels (e.g., eco-labels) and capacity building of small-scale producers.
Mutu Kayu Gergajian Komersial di Toko Bangunan Kawasan Cibubur Berdasarkan Keragaan Fisik Kayunya
Christiawan, Nikolaus Adven; Nugroho, Naresworo; Larasatie, Pipiet; Karlinasarie, Lina (Mulawarman University, 2025-09-25)
Penggunaan kayu sebagai bahan material bangunan masih menjadi pilihan untuk berbagai keperluan termasuk untuk komponen bangunan. Kawasan Cibubur menjadi contoh daerah yang sangat pesat perkembangan wilayahnya karena dinggap menjaadi daerah penyangga beberapa kota besar dan industri. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis serta mengevaluasi kualitas kayu gergajian komersial yang dijual di pasaran melalui toko bangunan yang ada. Sampel penelitian berjumlah 1,050 sampel kayu dari berbagai bentuk dan ukuran sortimen berupa balok, papan, kaso, dan reng yang diperoleh dari 36 toko bangunan. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui penilaian visual dari 10 sampel untuk semua sortimen yang tersedia di toko bangunan. Penilaian jenis cacat berupa mata kayu, miring serat, dan cacat badan lain seperti retak dan pecah, serta cacat bentuk akibat proses pengeringan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan cacat utama yang paling paling banyak dijumpai adalah cacat mata kayu. Sebagian besar sortimen yang dijual di kawasan Cibubur masih termasuk ke dalam mutu A. Penilaian terhadap strength ratio menunjukkan bahwa mayoritas sampel sortimen yang dijual di Kawasan Cibubur memiliki strength ratio yang tinggi masuk pada rentang 100-76%.
Selective cross-metathesis of cellobiose derivatives with amido-functionalized olefinic structures: A model study for synthesis of cellulosic diblock copolymers
Sato, Yuuki; Sugimura, Kazuki; Edgar, Kevin J.; Kamitakahara, Hiroshi (Elsevier, 2024-09-01)
This work describes a model study for synthesis of cellulose-based block copolymers, investigating selective coupling of peracetyl beta-d-cellobiose and perethyl beta-d-cellobiose at their reducing-ends by olefin cross-metathesis (CM). Herein we explore suitable pairs of omega-alkenamides that permit selective, quantitative coupling by CM. Condensation reactions of hepta-O-acetyl-beta-d-cellobiosylamine or hepta-O-ethyl-beta-d-cellobiosylamine with acyl chlorides afforded the corresponding N-(beta-d-cellobiosyl)-omega-alkenamide derivatives with an aromatic olefin or linear olefinic structures. Among the introduced olefinic structures, CM of the undec-10-enamide (Type I olefin) and the acrylamide (Type II olefin) gave the hetero-block tetramers, N-(hepta-O-ethyl-beta-d-cellobiosyl)-N '-(hepta-O-acetyl-beta-d-cellobiosyl)-alkene-alpha,omega-diamides, with >98 % selectivity. Moreover, selectivity was not influenced by the cellobiose substituents when a Type I olefin with a long alkyl tether was used. Although the amide carbonyl group could chelate the ruthenium atom and reduce CM selectivity, the results indicated that such chelation is suppressed by sterically hindered pyranose rings or the long alkyl chain between the amido group and the double bond. Based on this model study, selective end-to-end coupling of tri-O-ethyl cellulose and acetylated cellobiose was accomplished, proving the concept that this model study with cellobiose derivatives is a useful signpost for selective synthesis of polysaccharide-based block copolymers.
Kinetics of Calcite Nucleation onto Sulfated Chitosan Derivatives and Implications for Water-Polysaccharide Interactions during Crystallization of Sparingly Soluble Salts
Knight, Brenna M.; Mondal, Ronnie; Han, Nizhou; Pietra, Nicholas F.; Hall, Brady A.; Edgar, Kevin J.; Welborn, Valerie Vaissier; Madsen, Louis A.; De Yoreo, James J.; Dove, Patricia M. (American Chemical Society, 2024-07-11)
Anionic macromolecules are found at sites of CaCO3 biomineralization in diverse organisms, but their roles in crystallization are not well-understood. We prepared a series of sulfated chitosan derivatives with varied positions and degrees of sulfation, DS(SO3-), and measured calcite nucleation rate onto these materials. Fitting the classical nucleation theory model to the kinetic data reveals the interfacial free energy of the calcite-polysaccharide-solution system, gamma(net), is lowest for nonsulfated controls and increases with DS(SO3-). The kinetic prefactor also increases with DS(SO3-). Simulations of Ca2+-H2O-chitosan systems show greater water structuring around sulfate groups compared to uncharged substituents, independent of sulfate location. Ca2+-SO3- interactions are solvent-separated by distances that are inversely correlated with DS(SO3-) of the polysaccharide. The simulations also predict SO3- and NH3+ groups affect the solvation waters and HCO3- ions associated with Ca2+. Integrating the experimental and computational evidence suggests sulfate groups influence nucleation by increasing the difficulty of displacing near-surface water, thereby increasing gamma(net). By correlating gamma(net) and net charge per monosaccharide for diverse polysaccharides, we suggest the solvent-separated interactions of functional groups with Ca2+ influence thermodynamic and kinetic components to crystallization by similar solvent-dominated processes. The findings reiterate the importance of establishing water structure and properties at macromolecule-solution interfaces.
Spray-coated polylactic acid/polyhydroxyalkanoate biodegradable bioplastic films on paper: A sustainable strategy for enhancing barrier and mechanical properties
Cao, Chenxi; Ahn, Kihyeon; Hong, Su Jung; Kim, Young-Teck; He, Zunhuang; Huang, Haibo; Wang, Zhiwu; Lee, Eunhye; Shim, Yookyoung (Elsevier, 2026-01)
This study proposes a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic coatings in packaging by developing a biodegradable coating system based on polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA). A novel spray coating technique followed by hot pressing was used to apply PLA/PHA blends onto kraft pulp paper. This approach aimed to enhance mechanical strength, barrier properties, and water resistance while maintaining compostability. The coating behavior was strongly influenced by the PLA to PHA ratio. PLA formed a dense surface layer that effectively sealed pores, while PHA penetrated more deeply into the fibrous matrix, filling internal voids. These complementary roles contributed differently to the mechanical and barrier properties. In particular, the 50:50 PLA/PHA blend showed the most balanced results, achieving the lowest oxygen transmission rate and improved tensile strength. The thermogravimetric analysis further confirmed enhanced thermal stability in all coated samples compared to uncoated paper, with the degradation temperature profile shifting depending on the polymer composition. However, coatings with excessive PHA content showed surface irregularities and reduced barrier performance due to poor film formation. Overall, this work demonstrates that compositional tuning of PLA and PHA enables multifunctional coatings with improved mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties. The proposed spray-based method offers a scalable, eco-friendly solution for high-performance biodegradable packaging.
Status of global accumulation of marine debris
Galappaththi, Eranga K.; Russell, Jennifer D.; Dolby, Mitch; Newsome, Thomas; Jayasekara, Sithuni M. (Elsevier, 2025-12-01)
The issue of marine debris pollution is a growing crisis, with detrimental effects on ecosystems, marine organisms, and human health. More than 800 coastal and marine species are affected, resulting in billions of dollars of economic losses each year. To better understand the dimensions of this challenge, it is important to establish a solid scientific knowledge base. This study aims to synthesize the global research and evidence of marine debris accumulation in coastal areas. Through a systematic literature review, we found that Europe and Asia are the primary regions where marine debris accumulation is studied, with the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans accounting for most of research. The majority of publications are by first authors from European and Asian institutions, with the US also contributing significantly. Most studies focus on the volume of marine debris, with general waste being the most studied type. Additionally, physical and environmental factors play a larger role than human-based factors in marine debris accumulation. Overall, there is a trend of increasing and relocating marine debris accumulation across all determining factors. We also identified important areas for future research to deepen our understanding of the factors influencing debris accumulation. In particular, there is a notable gap in the practical application of tools and methods for tracking and identifying marine debris, such as satellite remote sensing, specialized databases, and computational modeling approaches. The study findings offer vital insights for decision-making regarding marine debris accumulation, benefiting policymakers, researchers, and other stakeholders striving towards a more sustainable globe.
Gelation during Ring-Opening Reactions of Cellulosics with Cyclic Anhydrides: Phenomena and Mechanisms
Petrova, Stella P.; Zheng, Zhaoxi; Heinze, Daniel Alves; Welborn, Valerie; Bortner, Michael J.; Schmidt-Rohr, Klaus; Edgar, Kevin J. (American Chemical Society, 2024-11-21)
Cellulose esters are used in Food and Drug Administration-approved oral formulations, including in amorphous solid dispersions (ASDs). Some bear substituents with terminal carboxyl moieties (e.g., hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose acetate succinate (HPMCAS)); these omega-carboxy ester substituents enhance interactions with drug molecules in solid and solution phases and enable pH-responsive drug release. However, the synthesis of carboxyl-pendent cellulose esters is challenging, partly due to competing reactions between introduced carboxyl groups and residual hydroxyls on different chains, forming either physically or covalently cross-linked systems. As we explored ring-opening reactions of cyclic anhydrides with cellulose and its esters to prepare polymers designed for high ASD performance, we became concerned upon encountering gelation. Herein, we probe the complexity of such ring-opening reactions in detail, for the first time, utilizing rheometry and solid-state 13C NMR spectroscopy. Gelation in these ring-opening reactions was caused predominantly by physical interactions, progressing in some cases to covalent cross-links over time.
Scalable Accelerated Materials Discovery of Sustainable Polysaccharide-Based Hydrogels by Autonomous Experimentation and Collaborative Learning
Liu, Yang; Yue, Xubo; Zhang, Junru; Zhai, Zhenghao; Moammeri, Ali; Edgar, Kevin J.; Berahas, Albert S.; Al Kontar, Raed; Johnson, Blake N. (American Chemical Society, 2024-12-11)
While some materials can be discovered and engineered using standalone self-driving workflows, coordinating multiple stakeholders and workflows toward a common goal could advance autonomous experimentation (AE) for accelerated materials discovery (AMD). Here, we describe a scalable AMD paradigm based on AE and "collaborative learning". Collaborative learning using a novel consensus Bayesian optimization (BO) model enabled the rapid discovery of mechanically optimized composite polysaccharide hydrogels. The collaborative workflow outperformed a non-collaborating AMD workflow scaled by independent learning based on the trend of mechanical property evolution over eight experimental iterations, corresponding to a budget limit. After five iterations, four collaborating clients obtained notable material performance (i.e., composition discovery). Collaborative learning by consensus BO can enable scaling and performance optimization for a range of self-driving materials research workflows driven by optimally cooperating humans and machines that share a material design objective.
Advancing Bioresource Utilization to Incentivize a Sustainable Bioeconomy: A Systematic Review and Proposal of the Enhanced Bioresource Utilization Index
Ugwu, Collins O.; Berry, Michael D.; Winans, Kiara S. (MDPI, 2025-09-03)
Over 15 billion tonnes year⁻¹ of biomass is used globally, yet 14% is downcycled for energy, forfeiting billions in potential revenue for higher-value products. Robust metrics that couple cascading use with cradle-to-gate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and economic value are essential for identifying superior biomass pathways. The aim of this review is to systematically map biomass utilization indicators published between 2010 and 2025; compare their treatment regarding circularity, climate, and economic value; and introduce the enhanced Bioresource Utilization Index (eBUI). A PRISMA-aligned search of Scopus and Web of Science yielded 80,808 records, of which 33 met the eligibility criteria. Each indicator was scored on cascading, data intensity, and environmental and economic integration, as well as computational complexity and sector scope. The Material Circularity Indicator, Biomass Utilization Efficiency, the Biomass Utilization Factor, and legacy BUI satisfied no more than two criteria simultaneously, and none directly linked mass flows to both GHG emissions and net revenue. The eBUI concept integrates mass balance, lifecycle carbon intensity, and value coefficients into a single 0–1 score. An open-access calculator and data quality checklist accompany the metric, enabling policymakers and industry to prioritize biomass pathways that are circular, climate-smart, and economically attractive.
Advancements, applications, and challenges of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) in packaging as biodegradable bioplastics
Ahn, Kihyeon; Taylor, Chloe M.; Kim, Young-Teck (2025-04-01)
The rising environmental concerns associated with petroleum-based plastics have driven the search for biodegradable alternatives, particularly for short-term and dispos- able applications. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), a class of biopolymers and bioplastics, derived from renewable resources, offer promising features for sustainable packaging. However, PHAs often face technical challenges limiting their practical applications in packaging. Recent advancements in biomanufacturing processes have aimed to address the limitations, such as thermal stability, selective biodegradability, barrier properties, and mechanical and physical properties, through diverse approaches including new production processes, diversified feedstocks, and fermentation technologies. This chap- ter explores the structural diversity and types of PHAs, their environmental degradation behaviors, and the perspectives on their application within the packaging industry, particularly in alignment with regulatory standards and sustainability goals.
Haloferax mediterranei for bioplastics production from wasted materials: potential, opportunities, and challenges
Zhang, Xueyao; Zhao, Fujunzhu; Wang, Mingxi; Huang, Haibo; Kim, Young-Teck; Lansing, Stephanie; Wang, Zhi-Wu (2025-04-01)
This chapter explored the potential of Haloferax mediterranei , a halophilic archaeon, as a sustainable biocatalyst for polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) production from waste ma- terials. PHAs, biodegradable bioplastics, offer an eco-friendly alternative to petroleum- based plastics but face commercialization challenges due to high production costs and feedstock variability. H. mediterranei addresses these issues with its ability to thrive in high-salinity environments, reducing contamination risks and sterilization costs, while metabolizing diverse, low-cost waste-derived substrates. The chapter details H. mediter- ranei s tolerance of inhibitors, high PHA yields, efficient downstream processing, and adaptability to continuous fermentation systems. Challenges, including substrate and product inhibition, can be addressed through innovative pretreatment and fermentation strategies. The chapter also highlighted H. mediterranei s versatility in producing valuable co-products like carotenoids and extracellular polymeric substances, explored its role in high-salinity wastewater treatment, and emphasized its upscaled application potential, thereby paving the way for scalable, eco-friendly bioplastic production.
Enhancement of 3-hydroxyvalerate fraction in poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) produced by Haloferax mediterranei fed with food waste pretreated via arrested anaerobic digestion integrated with microbial electrolysis cells
Zhang, Xueyao; Amradi, Naresh Kumar; Moore, Martin; Hassanein, Amro; Mickol, Rebecca L.; McCoy, Emily L.; Eddie, Brian J.; Shepard, Jamia S.; Wang, Jiefu; Lansing, Stephanie; Yates, Matthew D.; Kim, Young-Teck; Wang, Zhi-Wu (Elsevier, 2025-08)
Bioplastics made of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) with a 20 mol% HV fraction are highly desirable in the market for 3-Hydroxyvalerate (HV)-conferred superior thermal, biological, and mechanical properties. Although Haloferax mediterranei (HM) is capable of producing PHBV from food waste, its HV fraction is generally lower than 10 mol%. This study for the first time investigated the engineering approach to increasing HV fraction through elevating the propionic and valeric acid fractions in volatile fatty acids (VFAs) produced from food waste via arrested anaerobic digestion with and without microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) incorporation. Results showed that HV fraction in PHBV produced by HM is proportional to the fractions of propionic and valeric acids in VFAs. A 20 mol% HV fraction can be achieved by MECs incorporation, which might be attributable to pH regulation by the MECs. These findings lay a foundation for developing waste-processing technologies that enable the production of high-value, microbially-derived materials.
Perceptions of Multi-Story Wood Buildings: A Scoping Review
Paudel, Arati; Larasatie, Pipiet; Godar Chhetri, Sagar; Rubino, Elena; Boston, Kevin (MDPI, 2025-09-08)
The construction sector contributes significantly to global greenhouse gases, accounting for 39% of worldwide emissions. Multi-story wood buildings (MSWBs) present a sustainable alternative to traditional emissions-intensive construction materials like concrete and steel. However, only a few studies have investigated how potential customers perceive MSWBs, which influences their acceptance and demand. This study uses a concept-driven scoping review to explore perceptions and concerns about living in MSWBs and to understand barriers to their adoption. Through a narrative synthesis of 20 peer-reviewed articles, this study uncovered five key themes: environmental sustainability, fire safety, human well-being, structural durability, and costs. These findings highlight opportunities and challenges for MSWBs’ market growth and inform future communication strategies to enhance public acceptance and promote sustainable construction and the built environment.
Thermodynamics of calcium binding to heparin: Implications of solvation and water structuring for polysaccharide biofunctions
Knight, Brenna M.; Gallagher, Connor M. B.; Schulz, Michael D.; Edgar, Kevin J.; McNaul, Caylyn D.; McCutchin, Christina A.; Dove, Patricia M. (National Academy of Sciences, 2025-08-26)
Heparin sulfates are found in all animal tissues and have essential roles in living systems. This family of biomacromolecules modulates binding to calcium ions (Ca²⁺) in low free energy reactions that influence biochemical processes from cell signaling and anticoagulant efficacy to biomineralization. Despite their ubiquity, the thermodynamic basis for how heparans and similarly functionalized biomolecules regulate Ca²⁺ interactions is not yet established. Using heparosan (Control) and heparins with different positions of sulfate groups, we quantify how SO₃⁻ and COO⁻ content and SO₃⁻ position modulate Ca²⁺ binding by isothermal titration calorimetry. The free energy of all heparin-Ca²⁺ interactions (ΔGrxn) is dominated by entropic contributions due to favorable water release from polar, hydrophilic groups. Heparin with both sulfate esters (O-SO₃⁻) and sulfamides (N-SO₃⁻) has the strongest binding to Ca²⁺ compared to heparosan and to heparin with only O-SO₃⁻ groups (~3X). By linking Ca²⁺ binding thermodynamics to measurements of the interfacial energy for calcite (CaCO₃) crystallization onto polysaccharides, we show molecule-specific differences in nucleation rate can be explained by differences in water structuring during Ca²⁺ interactions. A large entropic term (-TΔSrxn) upon Ca²⁺–polysaccharide binding correlates with high interfacial energy to CaCO₃ nucleation. Combining our measurements with literature values indicates many Ca²⁺–polysaccharide interactions have a shared thermodynamic signature. The resulting enthalpy–entropy compensation relationship suggests these interactions are generally dominated by water restructuring involving few conformational changes, distinct from Ca²⁺–protein binding. Our findings quantify the thermodynamic origins of heparin-specific interactions with Ca²⁺ and demonstrate the contributions of solvation and functional group position during biomacromolecule-mediated ion regulation.
From asking “would I be ready?” to “would I belong?”: Preparedness perceptions of forest and natural resources university students in the United States to enter the workforce
Chamlagain, Kamana; Larasatie, Pipiet; Rubino, Elena; Knowles, Shanna (Elsevier, 2025-09-01)
Despite its economic contribution, the forest and related natural resource (FNR) sector in the U.S. faces significant challenges, which higher education has been instrumental in overcoming. This study aims to investigate the patterns of entry of university students into the FNR workforce, with a focus on their perceptions of preparedness to enter the workforce. We followed the perceived fit theory as a framework to model students' preparedness. Based on survey results, we found students chose “analysis, synthesis, and critical skills” as their highest level of competency development. However, within the same measurement, the recruiters placed significantly high importance on “responsibility and perseverance” competency. We discuss the differences in perceptions between Gen X recruiters and Gen Z students from generational perspectives in the workplace. Furthermore, we highlight the broader competency units that these students and recruiters have selected. Theoretically, “analysis, synthesis, and critical skills” and “responsibility and perseverance” are grouped into “lifelong learning.” However, despite lifelong learning being considered essential for cultivating a versatile, adaptive, and employable workforce, further analysis reveals a significant negative correlation between students' lifelong learning competencies and their perceived preparedness for entering the workforce. The significant negative correlation is also found on student respondents who identified themselves as Black, or woman, or other gender identity, suggesting the less sense of belonging. Leaders of the FNR program could facilitate chances for students to articulate their experiences of belonging, through mentorship or networking based on shared social identities or life stages.
Effect of Sequence-Based Incorporation of Fillers, Kenaf Fiber and Graphene Nanoplate, on Polypropylene Composites via a Physicochemical Compounding Method
Lee, Soohyung; Ahn, Kihyeon; Hong, Su Jung; Kim, Young-Teck (MDPI, 2025-07-17)
Natural-fiber-reinforced polypropylene (PP) composites are gaining increasing interest as lightweight, sustainable alternatives for various packaging and applications. This study investigates the effect of filler addition sequence on the mechanical, morphological, thermal, and dynamic mechanical properties of PP-based composites reinforced with graphite nanoplatelets (GnP) and kenaf fiber (KF). Two filler incorporation sequences were evaluated: GnP/KF/PP (GnP initially mixed with KF before PP addition) and GnP/PP/KF (KF added after mixing GnP with PP). The GnP/KF/PP composite exhibited superior mechanical properties, with tensile strength and flexural strength increasing by up to 25% compared to the control, while GnP/PP/KF showed a 13% improvement. SEM analyses revealed that initial mixing of GnP with KF significantly improved filler dispersion and interfacial bonding, enhancing stress transfer within the composite. XRD and DSC analyses showed reduced crystallinity and lower crystallization temperatures in the addition of KF due to restricted polymer chain mobility. Thermal stability assessed by TGA indicated minimal differences between the composites regardless of filler sequence. DMA results demonstrated a significantly higher storage modulus and enhanced elastic response in the addition of KF, alongside a slight decrease in glass transition temperature (T_g). The results emphasize the importance of optimizing filler addition sequences to enhance mechanical performance, confirming the potential of these composites in sustainable packaging and structural automotive applications.
Cellulose-Based Pickering Emulsion-Templated Edible Oleofoam: A Novel Approach to Healthier Solid-Fat Replacers
Lee, Sang Min; Hong, Su Jung; Shin, Gye Hwa; Kim, Jun Tae (MDPI, 2025-05-28)
As health concerns and regulatory pressures over saturated and trans fats grow, there is a growing need for healthier alternatives to traditional solid fats, such as butter and hydrogenated oils, that are still widely used in the food system. In this study, cellulose particle-based Pickering emulsions (CP-PEs) were prepared from microcrystalline cellulose and ethylcellulose and then foamed to obtain edible oleofoams (CP-EOs) as a solid-fat replacer. The average size of CP-PE droplets without surfactant was 598 ± 69 nm, as confirmed by confocal and transmission electron microscopy. Foaming with citric acid/NaHCO₃ and structuring with ≥6% glyceryl monostearate resulted in CP-EOs with an overrun of 147 ± 4% and volumetric stability for 72 h. Micro-computed tomography showed a uniform microcellular network, while the rheological analysis showed solid-like behavior with a storage modulus higher than butter. Differential scanning calorimetry showed a melting enthalpy similar to unsalted butter (10.1 ± 0.9 J/g). These physicochemical properties demonstrate that CP-EOs can closely mimic the firmness, thermal profile, and mouth-feel of conventional solid fats and may provide a promising solid-fat replacer.
Forest and wood products sector workforce survey insights
Larasatie, Pipiet (2025-01-13)
This survey is part of a workforce study focused on the forest and wood products sector led by Dr. Pipiet Larasatie. Its aim is to identify and characterize the existing labor force, and it explores issues and opinions around inclusion, recruitment, and retention.

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