2nd COPIL of ValCelMat in Ghent
(29-04-2025) On 23 April, we welcomed the partners of the ValCelMat project in Ghent for the 2nd COPIL.
On 23 April 2025, VALCELMAT’s 2nd COPIL took place in Ghent, an opportunity to take stock of the work started during this first period of the project and to visit the facilities of the operator Ghent University.
The COPIL was also an opportunity for players in the materials sector to present their activities: Daurema (Justine Haffemayer), La Tannerie Végétale (Sixtine de Chateauneuf-Randon), Plastium (Angeline Paturel and Emilie Roulland).
About the project
ValCelMat is an Interreg F-W-VL project cofinanced by Provincie Oost-Vlaanderen and Région Wallone.
Among polymers derived from non-food renewable resources, cellulose is the most abundant biopolymer on Earth. Furthermore, it stands for being both recyclable and biodegradable. The three regions involved in the project possess favorable conditions—such as suitable climates, high-quality soils, and specialized industries including plant fractionation, paper production, and biorefineries—that support a rich availability and diversity of cellulose resources.
The VALCELMAT project seeks to enhance the value of cellulose by developing new applications in packaging, textiles, and bioplastic additives. To achieve this, the cellulose will undergo chemical modification to introduce new functionalities—such as improved resistance to moisture and fire—while preserving its natural benefits, including non-toxicity and biodegradability. These modifications and their conversion into final products will be carried out through innovative, eco-friendly processes.
Project partners: Université d'Artois | MATERIA NOVA | Hogeschool Gent | Université de Picardie Jules Verne | Universiteit Gent