The aim of the Wallenberg Initiative Material Science for Sustainability is to create the conditions for a sustainable society by researching next generation of ecofriendly materials and manufacturing processes. This will also facilitate better technology for energy systems of the future, and to combat pollution and toxic emissions.

Upcycling

Watch the film about the new research program, produced by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation. About 8 minutes into the film, we get to follow Aji Mathew and her research team in the quest to take recycling one step further into the future. Cellulose in old scraps of fabric is broken down in a chemical process and that can be used for new materials. Aji´s team is already using similar nanocellulose when they 3D print a new type of water filter. The nanomaterial is so small that it can capture microplastics and chemicals that are in polluted water.