Fibenol brought REDYSIGN to the Cellulose International Summit, where Gert Preegel presented the latest advances in Sunburst™ fractionation technology for producing high-performance cellulose from hardwood.
The first edition of the Cellulose International Summit took place from 29 June to 2 July 2026 at the LGP2 laboratory in Grenoble, France, bringing together the international cellulose research and innovation community. Among the projects contributing to this first edition was REDYSIGN, represented by project partner Fibenol through a presentation by Gert Preegel, showcasing the latest advances in advanced cellulose production for next-generation recyclable packaging.
More than 150 researchers, academics, doctoral students and industry representatives from over 60 countries attended the summit, creating an international forum to exchange the latest advances in cellulose science, bio-based materials and sustainable packaging. Over four days, participants shared knowledge through keynote lectures, scientific presentations, poster sessions and technical discussions focused on the future of cellulose-based technologies.
An international forum for the future of cellulose
Organised by the Cellulose Valley Chair, supported by the Grenoble INP Foundation, together with the LGP2 laboratory and DurInnPack, in partnership with Kanazawa University, Centre Technique du Papier (CTP), Carnot PolyNat, Tec21, GlycoAlpes and Université Grenoble Alpes, the summit brought together experts from across academia and industry to accelerate innovation in cellulose-based materials.
The scientific programme revolved around three major themes:
- Cellulose and cellulose derivatives.
- Advanced cellulose-based materials.
- Packaging applications and sustainable end-of-life management.
Across these sessions, participants explored topics ranging from nanocellulose engineering, cellulose chemistry and biomass valorisation to recyclable packaging, biodegradability, life-cycle assessment and innovative manufacturing technologies, highlighting the growing role of cellulose in Europe’s transition towards a circular bioeconomy.
REDYSIGN contributes to the discussion on high-performance cellulose
At the summit, REDYSIGN took part in the scientific programme on 30 June, during the session dedicated to Cellulose and Cellulose Derivatives.
Representing Fibenol, Gert Preegel delivered the presentation: “From Hardwood to High-Performance Cellulose: Tailored Crystalline Cellulose via Sunburst™ Fractionation“.
Within REDYSIGN, this technology plays a key role in the project’s ambition to develop resource-efficient processes capable of transforming wood into advanced cellulose-based materials for recyclable-by-design fresh meat packaging. By maximising the valorisation of wood while reducing resource consumption, these developments contribute to creating sustainable alternatives to conventional fossil-based packaging solutions.
As research into advanced cellulose materials continues to accelerate worldwide, events such as the Cellulose International Summit play an important role in connecting scientific advances with future industrial applications. By contributing to these discussions, REDYSIGN continues to support the development of innovative fibre-based packaging solutions for a more circular bioeconomy.
