The Nonwovens Innovation Academy (NIA) brings together academics, students, scientists and industry experts to encourage the sharing of knowledge, research and developments that will support the innovation and growth in the nonwovens industry. VTT Research Center will be hosting the 2022 Academy in Jyväskylä, Finland on 11-12 May.

This edition is built around 3 sessions, one covering medical applications and modelling studies, one dedicated to the quest for more cellulosic fibres and other biomaterials and a session on advanced manufacturing technologies. The programme is available on the EDANA website.

“The NIA promotes fundamental understanding and knowledge of the science and technology of nonwoven fabrics, products and processes, and provides a unique opportunity for both relaxed networking and structured meetings between researchers, students specialising in nonwovens or related fields, and potential employers”, said Pierre Wiertz, General Manager of EDANA.

“EDANA has been deeply involved in the Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUPD) and VTT is proud to host the NIA and present how the industry responds in multiple ways to the resulting challenges”, commented Taina Kamppuri, Senior Scientist at VTT.

A visit to Valmet, a large pulp producer and the tour of the VTT facilities nicely complement the programme. “During your visit at VTT, you will see the foam forming pilot environment where we will be running a nonwoven demonstration. You’ll visit VTT’s nonwovens labs and you’ll get to know VTT’s biomaterial processing possibilities”, concluded Taina

A key feature of the event supported by EDANA student grants, is of course the Posters Session for which students and researchers are selected to present their latest work within a broad range of topics. This year, 13 posters will be presented.

For full programme information including presentation highlights, conference and hotel registrations, visit: https://www.edana.org/events/nonwovens-innovation-academy/nia-2022