First prize in the Science Flash competition for the model paper factory

At the ZELLCHEMING Expo 2023 in Wiesbaden, our colleague Jihène Jerbi impressed with an exciting presentation on the possible applications of computational chemistry in paper research – and won first prize in the Science Flash competition.

Science Flash is part of the career day on the third day of the ZELLCHEMING Expo. The competition offers young researchers the opportunity to present their scientific work in short, concise presentations. The aim is to communicate complex research topics in a clear, understandable and engaging way. The audience vote ultimately decides on the best presentation.

With her contribution, our colleague Dr Jihène Jerbi impressively demonstrated how computational chemistry methods can help to investigate molecular structures and reaction mechanisms in fibre-based materials that would otherwise be difficult to understand or could only be determined at great expense and through time-consuming laboratory experiments. ‘These simulations allow us to look at what happens in the paper manufacturing process from a completely different angle,’ says the quantum physicist, who holds a doctorate. ‘In this way, we can investigate the enzymatic treatment and adsorption of molecules on cellulose fibres and better understand the inter- and intramolecular interactions.’ The effects of using different solvents, chemical fillers, additives and sizing agents could also be simulated and described theoretically.

This award recognises a theoretical research approach that draws on various computer-aided techniques from quantum mechanics and molecular dynamics.

We congratulate her on this success and are delighted that this forward-looking research idea has been recognised at ZELLCHEMING Expo 2023!