By modifying the surface properties of, or by adding new properties to,

cellulose-based materials, these can be utilized more effectively in

various products.The research has provided a foundation for the future development of

cellulose-based materials and fiber-reinforced composite materials and

shows, for example, several methods to improve interfacial adhesion

between cellulose fibers and matrix materials in composites.

In February, Simon Utsel will commence a six-month postdoctoral

fellowship at Stanford University, California, in the US, where he will

be a member of Professor Yu Cui’s group and perform research on new

opportunities for the use of cellulose-based materials in electronic

components, such as batteries, capacitors, touch screens and solar

cells. The aim is to tailor the structure of the materials at a

nanometer level to optimize the macroscopic properties of components.

Dr. Utsel hopes to be able to contribute his knowledge predominantly in

the field of cellulose, but also his polymer, surface and colloid

expertise.Simon Utsel was born in Jönköping, Sweden, in 1984 and holds a Ph.D in

Pulp and Paper Chemistry and Technology from the Department of Fibre

and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, in

Stockholm, Sweden. His Ph.D was supervised by Professor Lars Wågberg.