SWAXS and tomography study on cellulose fiber alignment and structure under thermal compression in dry conditions
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Yangi AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 494 000 |
| Project duration | November 2023 - December 2025 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Research infrastructure - utilisation and collaboration |
| Call | Development project for increased industrial utilization of neutron and synchrotron light-based technologies, 2023 |
Important results from the project
The project fulfilled its initial objectives. Synchrotron-based characterisation was used to study how press parameters such as pressure, temperature, and dwell time affect the microstructure of cellulose in dry-formed materials. Scanning SWAXS analysed fibre packing and bonding, while in situ tomography enabled real-time imaging during pressing. The results established quantitative process–structure relationships and have been integrated into ongoing process development.
Expected long term effects
In the longer term, the project is expected to enable improved control of cellulose microstructure, leading to more consistent and improved product performance. The enhanced understanding of structure–process relationships allows more precise adjustment of press and thermoforming parameters, resulting in optimized mechanical and barrier properties. The established characterization methods strengthen long-term R&D capability and support more resource-efficient and sustainable product development.
Approach and implementation
SWAXS measurements were performed at MAXIV (ForMAX) on 1 mm packaging slices, scanned across 2 × 4 mm cross-sections with a 100 µm beam to capture the full material thickness. In-situ X-ray tomography under 3D compression was carried out at ESRF (ID19) using a custom miniature compression tool. Due to the complex cell geometry, SWAXS could not be measured in situ. Follow-up scanning SWAXS was performed at DESY PETRA III P.03 and at ALBA (BL11-NCD-SWEET) to validate and extend the results