TAPPI has created an International Nanotechnology Division to focus on nanotechnology for renewable materials, including the advancement of research and development for nanocellulose. The association says the new division will not only concentrate on developments for traditional forest-based products such as pulp, paper and building materials, but also on applications such as coatings, plastics and medical implants, among others. 

The division will be comprised of producers, academia, government, consulting companies, suppliers and others in the worldwide pulp, paper, packaging and converting industries. 

"When TAPPI volunteers suggested we take our nanotechnology efforts to the next level, we jumped at the opportunity to help the industry capitalize on this promising sector," said Larry N. Montague, president and CEO of TAPPI. "We see the new division as a platform for helping the industry respond to the rapidly changing field of nanotechnology, especially as commercialization develops in this fast-growing sector."

Creation of the new division builds on the six years of work by TAPPI's International Conference on Nanotechnology for Renewable Materials, held this year in Washington DC, June 6-8 (www.tappinano.org). TAPPI says this annual event has significantly accelerated the development of standards for nanocellulose, such as bringing TAPPI's ANSI Accredited Standards process to support ISO's Technical Committee on Nanotechnology. The International Nanotechnology Division will augment this important event by supporting technical developments and broader industry understanding of the value of nanocellulosic nanomaterials. It will also address emerging issues around environmental health, safety and risk assessment in the development of commercial nano-based products.

The new International Nanotechnology Division is TAPPI's eleventh division, reflecting continued growth of the organization, which has recently repositioned or added divisions such as those for Nonwovens (NET) and business management (PIMA). Each division works to share specific knowledge and provide solutions for the global industry through a variety of member benefits, products, services, and volunteer opportunities, including publications, events, education and training.

TAPPI is now recruiting volunteers for the International Nanotechnology Division who can help identify advancements in renewable nanocellulose materials research, development and, most importantly, commercialization.