Domtar and FPI to build pilot nanocrystalline plant

Montreal-based Domtar Corp and FP Innovations (FPI) are pooling their expertise to build a commercial-scale nanocrystalline demonstration plant at Domtar's Windsor QC pulp and paper mill site. The joint venture is attracting $32.4 million for construction of the plant and $8.4 million for operating costs, including $12 million from Domtar which has applied for project approval under the federal government's Pulp and Paper Green Transformation Program. Other funding comes from Natural Resources Canada and Quebec's Ministry of Natural Resources and Wild-life ($10.2 million each). All funding is subject to approval. FPI has been conducting R&D on fibre-based products for 15 years and has amassed an intellectual property portfolio on the manufacturing and applications of nanocrystalline cellulose which is derived from the wood pulp manufacturing process. Potential applications include optically reflective films, varnishes and bioplastics for the aerospace, automotive, chemical, textile and forestry industries. Several applications complement the new green aerospace development project recently announced by the Quebec government (see page 1). Following the completion of the one metric ton/day pilot facility, Domtar and FPI will explore the commercial viability of a larger commercial-scale plant…