Mid Sweden University

Unlike fossil-based plastics, wood-based packaging materials can be produced in an eco-friendly manner using wood chip residuals from sawmills and pulpwood. To produce high-yield pulp like chemithermomechanical pulps (CTMPs) for paperboard and liquid packaging, it’s crucial to reduce the electric energy consumption during fiber separation. The ultimate objective is to revolutionize paperboard production by achieving a middle-layer CTMP process that consumes less than 200 kWh/t, significantly improving from the current 500-600 kWh/t energy demand.

Optimizing the CTMP impregnation process of sodium sulfite (Na2SO3) in wood chips is crucial for achieving uniform softening, ideally at the fiber level. The properties of the fibers are significantly affected by the content of lignin sulfonates within the walls of the fiber and the middle lamellae. In this study, we employed in-house developed X-ray fluorescence (XRF) techniques, validated by beamline measurements, to map the distribution of sulfonated lignin within fibers. It also seemed possible to enhance the surface area of lignin-rich pulp fibers while losing minimal bulk by refining them with well-optimized low consistency (LC) refining. We aim to achieve a highly efficient separation of coniferous wood fibers by co-optimizing the sulfonation and the temperature in the pre-heater and chip-refiner. Additionally, we explored how lignin's softening behavior and potential crosslinking influence subsequent unit operations, including pressing, peroxide bleaching, and drying, following the defibration process. In defibration during chip refining, the maximum softening of wood fibers is preferred to maximize fiber preservation and minimize energy consumption. However, optimizing the stiffness of finished pulp fibers is preferable to reduce bulk loss during paperboard production. It can strive to optimize processes to develop stronger, lighter, and more sustainable composite packaging materials. Reducing environmental impact and electric energy can help create a more sustainable future.

Integrating research into teaching is pivotal in fostering critical thinking, innovation, and lifelong learning,especially in an era of rapid technological advancements and global educational transformations.Research-based education bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application,equipping students with analytical skills, adaptability, and inquiry. However, many higher educationinstitutions struggle to implement research-integrated curricula due to financial constraints, failing toattract students to research-profile programs due to limited scholarships and inadequate institutionalvisibility. This challenge is evident in Sweden, where universities, including Mid Sweden University, facedifficulties securing sufficient research funding in some subject areas and do not provide scholarships,impacting institutional growth and student engagement. A strategic approach is essential, emphasizingincreased funding, fostering stronger international collaborations, and enhancing research visibility. Topromote an inquiry-driven learning culture, universities should implement structured teaching strategies,including research-oriented curricula, interactive workshops, and interdisciplinary collaborations. Facultymembers are critical in imparting knowledge, researching, and mentoring students. As the SwedishCouncil for Higher Education outlines, a knowledge-driven environment requires a commitment toacademic freedom and integrity, as emphasized in the Act on Responsibility for Good Research Practiceand the Examination of Research Misconduct (2019:504).

Swedish higher education operates under complex governance structures balancing academic autonomy,financial sustainability, and societal impact. This paper examines four institutional approaches—professional, managerial, developmental, and market-driven—that shape research integration ineducation. The professional approach, rooted in the Humboldtian model, emphasizes knowledge andacademic independence. The managerial approach prioritizes institutional ranking and resource allocation;the developmental approach focuses on continuous innovation in educational practices, while the marketdrivenapproach aligns knowledge production with economic imperatives, ensuring research addressesindustry needs and global demands. Looking ahead, universities may navigate these approaches byfocusing on research-driven strategies, prioritizing three key areas: expanding international partnerships,advancing sustainable research initiatives, and integrating digital technologies into academic programs.Strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration and promoting ethical research practices enhancesinstitutional competitiveness and contributes to societal progress. By combining research-based teachingwith institutional strategies, universities can develop an educational framework supporting inquiry-basedlearning, equipping students with critical skills to address global challenges. This fosters competencies fornavigating complexities, highlighting the importance of research-driven education in preparing graduates.

Ultimately, prioritizing suggested strategic areas to leverage research-driven approaches empowerseducators to transform learning, fostering an environment that encourages inquiry, critical thinking, andacademic excellence. Institutions can create an inclusive, knowledge-driven, and transformative systemby overcoming financial and structural challenges and effectively leveraging available resources.

There is a growing need for increased knowledge regarding sustainable and health-conscious menstrual products, particularly as environmental concerns intersect with public health, equality, and education. Our recent research presents the development and assessment of an internal menstrual product made from wood-based, biodegradable, fossil and plastic-free materials. Designed for safe use for at least 12 hours, the product addresses the practical needs of modern users across diverse cultural and socioeconomic contexts. Laboratory testing, including toxicological assessments, absorption efficiency, and biodegradability analyses, confirms that the product meets high standards of safety and environmental performance. The design process emphasized comfort, hygiene, and suitability for extended daily use without increasing health risks, such as Toxic Shock Syndrome. Patents are pending both regarding the product design and regarding the production process conditions.

To complement and assist the product development, an interactive 3D educational tool was created to enhance menstrual and reproductive health literacy. This tool, tailored for young users and low-resource settings, has been evaluated in collaboration with schools, youth clinics, and international NGOs in high and low-income countries. The initiative responds to the persistent stigma surrounding menstruation and the limited access to accurate, inclusive, and culturally adapted educational resources.

A key research focus has been integrating sustainable material innovation with health education and exploring the potential for international standardization. The project also initiated steps toward the first global safety standard for menstrual products under ISO, promoting transparency, user safety, and global market readiness. Through stakeholder engagement, user studies, and pilot-scale manufacturing, this work demonstrates how eco-friendly menstrual products can support environmental goals while empowering users through education and accessibility.

By combining product innovation, education, and policy development, this research contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals such as: Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3), Quality Education (SDG 4), Gender Equality (SDG 5), and Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12). It offers a scalable, evidence-based framework for improving menstrual health globally.

The transition toward renewable, fiber-based packaging requires an improved understandingof chemical modifications in high-yield pulps such as chemithermomechanical pulp (CTMP). Sulfonationuniformity is essential for the energy-efficient production of high-strength CTMP pulp. However,laboratory methods only measure total sulfur and cannot illustrate its distribution at the fiber level,which can be visualized using μ-XRF. In this work, we present a laboratory μ-XRF system developedat Mid Sweden University and assess its capability to detect light elements in CTMP paper handsheets.A 32 × 32 point grid scan (1.6 × 1.6mm2 field of view, 50 μm step, 300 s/point) successfully resolvedsulfur Kα (2.31 keV) and calcium Kα (3.69 keV) fluorescence without helium flushing. Comparativemeasurements at the Elettra synchrotron confirmed consistency of sulfur peak position and spatialdistribution, with higher spectral resolution and signal-to-noise ratio. Histogram analysis usingWassersteindistance metrics demonstrated close agreement between datasets despite differing acquisitionconditions. These results demonstrate that laboratory XRF can reproducibly detect and map sulfur inCTMP fibers under ambient conditions, providing a practical tool to complement synchrotron studiesand supporting the development of energy-efficient, fiber-based packaging materials.

High-yield pulping, such as Chemithermomechanical Pulp (CTMP), is critical in developing sustainable fiber-based packaging materials. Achieving uniform lignin sulfonation during the impregnation process is crucial for maintaining fiber stiffness, maximizing bulk, and optimizing energy efficiency. However, current impregnation techniques often result in uneven distribution of sulfite (-SO₃⁻), leading to variations in fiber properties and increased energy consumption during refining. The ultimate goal is to achieve a middle-layer CTMP process that consumes less than 200 kWh/t of energy, significantly reducing the current energy consumption of 500-600 kWh/t [1].

To improve process efficiency and create stronger, lightweight paperboards, gaining a deeper understanding of sulfonation at the microscale is essential. This study uses Synchrotron-based X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) techniques to analyze sulfur distribution in CTMP fibers with high spatial resolution (10–15 µm). By mapping sulfonate content at the fiber level, we aim to enhance impregnation strategies and ensure a more homogeneous sulfonation process. Our research has been validated at beamline facilities such as APS (USA) [2], Elettra (Italy), and Diamond (Oxford, UK), providing new insights into how sulfonate ions (-SO₃⁻) integrate into lignin structures, which directly influences fiber softening and defibration efficiency.

We propose a refined impregnation approach that minimizes sulfite dosage while maintaining optimal fiber properties, ultimately reducing energy consumption in refining. By incorporating Synchrotron XRF analysis, we can assess the uniformity of sulfonation in wood chips in real-time, improving fiber separation and enhancing material performance. 

These advancements support the development of high-strength, lightweight packaging materials while promoting a more energy-efficient and eco-friendly pulping process. This study demonstrates the potential of advanced X-ray characterization techniques in optimizing the processing of fiber-based materials, bridging the gap between fundamental research and industrial applications. The findings contribute to the ongoing transition from fossil-based to sustainable, bio-based packaging solutions, aligning with global environmental goals.

REFERENCES 

[1]                Persson, E., Norgren, S., Engstrand, P., Johansson, M., & Edlund, H. [2019]: Spruce HT-CTMP revisited – A high yield, energy efficient pulp for future products,11 FMPRS Conference, Norrköping, Sweden.

[2]                Norlin, B., An, S., Granfeldt, T., Krapohl, D., Lai, B., Rahman, H., Zeeshan, F., & Engstrand, P. [2023]: Visualization of sulfur on single fiber level for pulping industry, Journal of Instrumentation, vol. 18: 01.

Integrating physical and virtual environments in laboratory-based technical education can manifest invarious ways. However, how to effectively connect the real and digital spaces within laboratory education remains to be determined. It is essential to explore how these two areas can complement each other to enhance learning processes and improve accessibility. Combining digital tools, virtual simulations, and traditional lab experiences is crucial for effectively bridging the knowledge gap and showcasing various approaches. Factors contributing to this gap may include the specific discipline, the availability of resources, and the extent to which digital technologies are incorporated into the curriculum. Understanding how technological advances have affected education across various fields, including technical education, is crucial. Physical laboratories offer students hands-on experience with equipment and tools, enabling them to develop practical skills and a deeper understanding of the subject matter. In contrast, virtual simulations can enhance physical lab experiences by providing accessibility, flexibility, and adaptability. The effectiveness of this method can be heightened by integrating both approaches rather than committing to one exclusively. It is essential to identify the limitations and challenges associated with traditional laboratory setups, including limited resources, safety concerns, accessibility issues, and the inability to replicate complex or hazardous experiments. Introducing virtual laboratories alongside traditional methods could effectively address these limitations. Digital simulations, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) can create immersive learning environments that closely resemble real-world situations. The advantages of virtual laboratories include scalability, cost-effectiveness, safety, accessibility, and the ability to simulate complex and dynamic systems. Virtual laboratories should complement traditional hands-on experiences rather than completely replace them, facilitating amore efficient use of time in physical laboratory work. Utilizing various spaces in distinct ways can enhance both synchronous and asynchronous learning. The former provides quick feedback and social support, while the latter fosters reflection and promotes more profound understanding. To create a blended learning environment, exploring strategies for integrating physical and virtual laboratory experiences and developing student guidelines on platforms like Moodle or Canvas is essential. Analytical methods can enhance teaching opportunities by automating the collection of extensive information about students, which can be used to personalize learning. This allows students to transition seamlessly between hands-on experiments and virtual simulations, taking advantage of both approaches. Ultimately, our main objective is to demonstrate how integrating virtual and physical elements into laboratory education can better prepare students for various real-world scenarios they will encounter in their careers. Students can practice troubleshooting, experiment design, and data analysis in simulated environments before entering the workforce. Combining laboratory-based technical education with virtual tools creates a dynamic learning environment integrating hands-on experience with digital innovation. This combination enhances skill development and equips learners with the demands of a technology-driven world.

Global environmental campaigns emphasize the need to understand better how renewable raw materials can be utilized effectively. There is a notable trend towards replacing fossil-based materials with fiber-based alternatives across various packaging applications. Solid and lightweight composite packaging structures can be produced in an environmentally friendly and energy-efficient way. In recent years, wood fibers have gained popularity as a packaging material. High-yield pulps, such as CTMP (Chemithermomechanical pulp), which achieves a 95% yield, are increasingly used in packaging. Worldwide, 5-10 Mt/y of CTMP are produced from softwood and hardwood chips for paperboard manufacturing. During tailor-making CTMP, wood chips are impregnated with aqueous sodium sulfite (Na2SO3) to sulfonate the wood's lignin. This sulfonation (-SO3-) softens the wood chips, enabling more selective defibration into the pulp. As a result, the pulp properties, including the bulk and strength characteristics of the final packaging, are enhanced. Several factors influence the quality of wood chips, including the chipping method used for pulpwood, sawmill chipping practices, and the chip screening system. Developing an impregnation technology that ensures an even distribution of sodium sulfite (Na2SO3) can be challenging. It is essential to measure the distribution of sulfonate groups in individual fibers and wood chips at a micro-scale; however, existing processing methods often need to be more robust and complex, making this difficult. If better measurement techniques were available, we could understand how sulfonation operates before defibration, improving the impregnation process. Sulfur impregnation can be studied using spatial and spectral resolutions to investigate the degree of sulfonation at the microscale. Therefore, we propose creating a laboratory-scale miniaturized X-ray fluorescence (XRF) scanner to measure sulfur distribution in wood chips on-site. We aim to minimize differences in sulfonate content between fibers, allowing us to reduce the dosage of sulfite (SO32-) needed for fiber separation and, consequently, lower the overall electrical energy used in chip refining. Research facilities, including APS beamline in the United States, Elettra beamlines in Italy, and Diamond light source in Oxford, United Kingdom, have validated X-ray fluorescence (XRF) techniques developed in-house. These techniques enable the measurement of sulfonated lignin distribution, providing a more detailed understanding of distribution within and between individual fibers. To ensure the homogeneity of sulfur distribution required for CTMP, we typically need a spatial resolution of 10-15 μm. We have developed our methodology based on this spatial resolution, which informs us about homogeneity. Our research has shown that sulfonation at the fiber surface is the most effective process parameter. Therefore, it is crucial to understand how sulfonate ions (-SO3-) are integrated into the structure of lignin in wood fibers, as this knowledge could be vital for developing future products and processes of high-strength packaging.

Uniform sulfonation using Na₂SO₃ is critical in chemithermomechanical pulp (CTMP) productionfor ensuring efficient processing and high product quality. However, achieving even distributionof sulfonate groups (–SO₃⁻) across wood fibers is challenging due to variability in wood chip size.To investigate sulfur(S) at the microscale, we developed a cost-effective X-ray fluorescence (XRF)imaging system utilizing polycapillary focusing optics. This setup enables high-resolution elementalmapping, achieving a spot size of ˜15 μm and spatial resolution of 15–20 μm, as confirmed witha chromium test pattern. A 3D-printed sealed chamber enables helium flushing, significantly enhancingthe detection of low atomic number elements, particularly sodium (Na). XRF imaging ofCTMP sheets reveals the distribution contours of S along individual wood fibers. This method offersa practical tool for evaluating and optimizing sulfonation uniformity during fiber impregnation inindustrial CTMP processes.

Unlike fossil-based plastics, wood-based packaging materials can be produced eco-friendly by using residuals from wooden houses, such as wood chips from sawmills and pulpwood from well-managed growing forests in northern Europe. The use of these woodchips to produce chemithermomechanical pulps (CTMP) paperboard and liquid packaging requires a reduction in electric energy consumption during fiber separation, since the content of lignin sulfonate within fiber walls and mid-lamellae affects fiber properties. As a result, it is imperative to optimize the impregnation methodology of sodium sulfite in wood chips to achieve evenly distributed softening properties preferably at the level of individual fibers. The long-term goal is to understand how to produce paperboard middle layer CTMP at less than 200 kWh/t rather than the present 500-600 kWh/t [1]. By using XRF (X-ray Fluorescence) techniques developed in-house and validated by beamline measurements, we have been able to determine how the sulfonated lignin is distributed both on individual fibers and between the fibers [2]. It also seems possible to enhance the surface area of lignin-rich pulp fibers while losing minimal bulk by refining them by means of well optimized low consistency refining. We have aimed to achieve extremely efficient separation of coniferous wood fibers by co-optimizing the sulfonation and the temperature in pre-heater and chip-refiner. Furthermore, we have studied the influence of lignin softening behavior and possible crosslinking after defibration i.e., in following unit operations as pressing, peroxide bleaching and drying. In defibration during chip refining, the maximum softening of wood fibers is preferred to maximize fiber preservation and minimize energy consumption. However, it is preferable to maximize the stiffness of finished pulp fibers to reduce bulk loss during paperboard production. We believe that strong and lightweight composite packaging structures can be manufactured in an environmentally friendly and low-energy-consuming manner.

REFERENCES 

[1]               Persson, E., Norgren, S., Engstrand, P., Johansson, M., & Edlund, H. [2019]: Spruce HT-CTMP revisited – A high yield, energy efficient pulp for future products,11 FMPRS Conference, Norrköping, Sweden.

[2]               Norlin, B., An, S., Granfeldt, T., Krapohl, D., Lai, B., Rahman, H., Zeeshan, F., & Engstrand, P. [2023]: Visualization of sulfur on single fiber level for pulping industry, Journal of Instrumentation, vol. 18: 01.