Say hello to Vilma Åkesson, who is studying for a Master of Science in Engineering and is doing her thesis at UMV! In this interview, Vilma talks more about her research and her time at UMV.

Hello, Vilma! Can you tell us a bit about your background and what you are studying at Karlstad University?

My name is Vilma Åkesson, I am 25 years old, and I am from Karlstad. I am in my fifth and final year at Karlstad University, where I am studying for a Master of Science in Engineering with a focus on Chemical Engineering. Right now, I am working on my thesis in barrier coating in collaboration with UMV.

What does your thesis focus on, and what made you choose this topic?

My thesis investigates how MCC (microcrystalline cellulose) and MFC (microfibrillated cellulose) can be combined in a coating formulation to improve the barrier and strength properties of paper substrates – an area that is still relatively unexplored.

MCC improves barrier properties by reducing air permeability, filling pores, and providing a smoother surface, while MFC increases strength by improving tensile and tear strength, as well as fiber bonding, while also enhancing the barrier to oxygen and water vapor. I am investigating whether a combination can provide the benefits of both materials and optimizing the dry content for energy-efficient drying

I chose the topic after working with MCC and MFC previously and became interested in their potential. At a trade fair, I met UMV, and we saw an opportunity to explore this further, especially since MCC and MFC are more environmentally friendly alternatives to fossil-based materials in coatings.

How do you conduct your research?

The work has been carried out in several stages and is a quantitative study. After an initial literature review, I conducted my own lab studies at Karlstad University, where I tested various combinations of MCC and MFC as well as varying dry contents. These mixtures were applied in a lab environment using a lab coater, and the results were evaluated through quantitative measurements.

Based on these tests, I identified the most optimal “recipe,” which was then tested in UMV’s pilot plant under different parameters. The samples produced were recently brought back to the university’s lab, where I tested the coated paper’s properties such as air permeability, OTR (oxygen transmission rate), WVTR (water vapor transmission rate), surface roughness, tensile strength, and oil resistance. Finally, the results will be analyzed and compiled into a written report and presented orally to both the company and the university.

What made you choose UMV Coating for your thesis project?

During the trade fair where I met UMV, I had a rewarding conversation with Per Emilsson about my previous work with MCC and their work with MCC and MFC in coatings. The conversation continued later with my university supervisor, where we discussed UMV’s areas of interest, my ambitions, and the opportunities in the university’s lab environments. I experienced strong engagement from UMV and saw the collaboration as an exciting opportunity.

Together, we identified a gap in previous studies on the combination of MCC and MFC, which we thought would be exciting to investigate further. Additionally, from an environmental perspective, it is interesting to study these chemicals as potential substitutes for other materials and to optimize the dry content to reduce energy consumption during drying

Can you give a concrete example of an exciting insight or discovery you’ve made during your thesis project?

This particular MCC has proven to be very effective in reducing the air permeability of paper substrates, even though this is known, it has given significantly better results than expected at low application amounts. The combination of MCC and MFC has also shown good processability at higher dry contents than what has been used previously, while still providing a fine fiber distribution, which has been very exciting.

How has the collaboration with UMV and your supervisor worked?

Throughout the project, I have received fantastic support from UMV, particularly from my supervisor Per Emilsson, whose ideas and feedback have been invaluable. We have had regular meetings both at UMV and Karlstad University, which has helped the development of the project. Håkan Karlsson, who was involved in approving the plans, and everyone who supported me before, during, and after the pilot runs, has contributed immensely.

Working with MCC, MFC, and paper substrates at the pilot scale has been a unique opportunity. UMV’s engagement, resources, and interest have made the project both fun and educational. I have truly had the chance to develop and test my ideas in a way that wouldn’t have been possible with just the university’s resources.