11 - February - 2025

The REPACELL project focuses on developing fully systematized, sensorized, and automated processes for obtaining cellulose nanofibers from the valorization of paper and cardboard waste. These nanofibers can be used to enhance the production of higher-quality recycled paper. The project’s main goal is to study techniques for obtaining cellulose nanoparticles and the quality parameters that define them, enabling process automation. Additionally, it involves the production of cellulose nanoparticles with suitable properties for future applications.

The primary objective of the project is the research and development of systematized and automated processes for obtaining cellulose nanofibers from recycled materials. The project achieves the valorization of recycled paper and other raw materials, as well as the production of micro/nanofibers for application in enhanced paper products (improved mechanical properties, hydrophobicity, recyclability). A pilot-scale upscaling is also carried out, along with sensorization and automation of the system.

Key project activities:

• Development and optimization of processes for obtaining micro/nanoparticles of cellulose (pre-treatments and treatments) from new cellulose sources like recycled paper. Through sensorization, process conditions are monitored to ensure control. Different methods are analyzed to verify the system’s versatility and establish automation guidelines.
• Scaling up cellulose nanofiber production to a semi-industrial scale.
• Development of automated control systems for the pulp production and nanofiber development process.
• Implementation of in-situ sensing technologies to monitor key parameters (viscosity, turbidity, particle size, etc.).
• Process engineering development, including design bases, balances, battery limits, flow diagrams, product and effluent streams, etc.
• Process modeling to create a Digital Twin, enabling monitoring and replication of the process in a virtual environment. This model will be used to simulate process scaling, validating its industrial feasibility.
• Development and optimization of drying processes.
• Evaluation of cellulose nanoparticle applications to enhance recycled paper quality. The feasibility of using micro/nanoparticles in recycled paper production will be assessed to validate the project’s developments and close the cycle within a circular economy framework.