Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

NEED and URGENCY. At UBC, we have several emerging research groups in the Faculty of Forestry, pushing the boundaries of sustainable materials. These groups are working on next generation bio-based materials and chemicals that have lower carbon footprints and better performance than traditional fossil-derived materials. In order to transform these new forest materials from residues and waste products, they are isolated with new green solvents, transformed with biocatalysts, and integrated into textile or plastic manufacturing processes. The rheological properties, or the flow behaviour, of these bio-based materials are critical in identifying and evaluating their suitability in different value-adding scenarios. One example is their potential in advanced manufacturing systems like additive manufacturing. Currently, the only Rheometer (which has been used for over 15 years) in UBC Wood Science is two-generations older than the latest model and cannot meet our research needs, due to lack of and discontinued essential accessories and support for repairs. With acquisition of the Rheometer, we will be able to have better understanding of the rheological properties of bio-based materials, and hence are able to move on with our projects on developing high value bioproducts that are tied to our current federal, provincial, and industrial research grants. Further it is needed for high quality training of highly qualified personnel on an instrument critical for formulation development in industry. RESEARCH PROGRAM. The new Rheometer will be mainly shared by four research groups from UBC Wood Science, covering: (1) Understanding the characteristics of bio-based nanomaterials based on which their applications in high-value fields will be identified; and (2) Advancing new technologies for developing bio-based products. TRAINING of HIGHLY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL. With the acquisition of this instrument, our teams will be able to continue with or surpass the existing record of producing high-impact research that will attract top students and diverse researchers to UBC. It will provide additional skills to the approximate 12 HQPs per year from undergraduate co-op students to post doctoral fellows that work in our labs, collectively giving training for more than 60 HQPs over the next five years. Training of HQP will include sample preparation, materials characterization, data interpretation, reporting, trouble shooting, and problem solving - all are highly favourable for companies focused on R&D and manufacturing of advanced materials and technologies. EDI consideration will be incorporated in the hiring and training of HQPs to ensure a diverse team.