BPI Seminar by Dr. Marc Delgado-Aguilar
March 9, 2026, 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm
Accelerating Nanocellulose Adoption in Performance Materials via Process Parameterization and Advanced Formulation
LOCATION: CHBE #202, Chemical & Biological Engineering Building at 2360 East Mall Vancouver BC V6T 1Z4
Agenda
- 12:00 PM Introduction - Dr. Emily Cranston
- 12:05 PM Featured Presentation - Dr. Marc Delgado-Aguilar, Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering, Polytechnic School of the University of Girona
- 12:45 PM Q&A
- 1:00 PM Closing
*Sandwiches and coffee will be available from 11:45 AM. Please arrive early to enjoy refreshments and connect with colleagues.
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Abstract
Nanocellulose, including nanocrystals and nanofibers, has been widely identified as a sustainability enabler across many sectors. While the literature on the benefits of this advanced renewable material is extensive, supported by laboratory data and critical economic, environmental, and technical assessments, the industrial production of nanocellulose, specifically cellulose nanofibers (CNFs), remains limited to a few producers worldwide. These producers face significant challenges, including process uncertainty, prohibitive logistic costs due to the low solid content of CNF suspensions, and the difficulty of entering large-volume applications where they could benefit from economies of scale to maximize their sustainability impact.
This seminar presents a real-world example of an industry-university collaboration focused on the design, installation, and commissioning of a CNF production line within the specialty chemicals and performance materials sector. We will discuss overcoming the twin challenges of consistent industrial upscaling and the complexity of formulating these materials into multiphasic systems (e.g. Pickering emulsions and dispersions). The talk will examine the critical steps required to transform nanocellulose from a basic characterization subject into a robust industrial technology.
The presentation will cover three core pillars of development:
Digitalization in upscaling. The implementation of digital technologies, including machine learning for predictive modeling, real-time monitoring, and granular process control, to ensure that reaction kinetics and fibrillation quality remain consistent at high volumes.
Advanced formulation. Exploring the behavior of nanostructured materials in complex multiphasic systems, specifically addressing technical constraints regarding solid content and rheology.
Validation. Proof-of-concept through real-world examples, such as the development of multifunctional additives for packaging materials and coatings.
About the Speaker
Dr. Marc Delgado-Aguilar is an Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering at the Polytechnic School of the University of Girona, in Spain. He received his PhD in Chemical Engineering in 2015 with honors and, since then, he has been actively working in both research and industrial projects related to lignocellulosic materials. Since 2021, he leads the Laboratory of Sustainable Materials and Product Design (LEPAMAP-PRODIS), counting on more than 30 members including permanent staff, postdoctoral researchers and PhD candidates.
His research group specializes in developing sustainable processes and techniques for creating high-performance, functional bio-based materials, innovative biocomposites, and nanomaterials. The group also incorporates a division dedicated to modeling and product ecodesign, facilitating the practical application of their research in the industrial sector. Dr. Delgado-Aguilar actively contributes to all areas of the group’s research, particularly in developing structure-property relationships for cellulose nanomaterials. His work includes advancing machine learning models, collaborating on product development with industry partners, devising valorization strategies for underutilized materials, and developing high-performance cellulose-based materials for value-added applications, including emulsions, suspensions or coatings, among others. He maintains an active collaboration with the industry, focusing on advanced materials and fine chemicals. Dr. Delgado-Aguilar has led the LEPAMAP-PRODIS group to achieve the TECNIO seal recognition by ACCIÓ (Generalitat de Catalunya) as a recognition for the strong activity in technology transfer. In addition, he is the representative of the TECNIO groups from UdG at TECNIO association, and is member of the Executive Board of this technological association.
Dr. Delgado-Aguilar counts on a well-stablished collaborative network across the globe and is an active member of ACS Cellulose and Renewable Materials Division, TAPPI, and EPNOE.