Nanocellulose derived sustainable materials

Abstract

Nanocellulose materials form an exciting sub-class of a broader family of polysaccharide-based nanomaterials. Nanocellulose can be derived from plants, marine animals, and bacteria. It boasts desirable mechanical properties such as high specific stiffness and strength, and excellent chemical and thermal stabilities combined with low weight and biodegradability, which make them ideal candidates for a range of different applications.  

This presentation gives an overview of the fundamental aspects of nanocellulose production and applications in several different industries including nanocomposites, biomedical technologies, water treatment, and flexible electronics. 

Biography

Dr Nasim Amiralian is the leader of the Bio-inspired Materials research group at The University of Queensland. Her research focuses on exploring the design and synthesis of tailor-made and precision-engineered biomaterials using agricultural waste to create environmentally friendly products as a replacement for petroleum-based plastics.  

The outcome of her work has resulted in the establishment of Australia’s first nanocellulose pilot production plant. In recognition of her contribution to the field of nanomaterials engineering and research excellence she has received a number of awards including The Eight Australian Women Who Are Shaking up the World of Science (Marie Claire, 2020), one of Australia’s Top 5 Scientists (2018), Queensland Women in STEM Prize- judges choice award (2017) and Women in Technology Life Sciences and/or Infotech Rising Star Award (2016). Nasim also is a strong advocate for cultural diversity and equity and supports staff and students to grow as more effective leaders and create social good.