Participation of Ilias El Ouahabi at the conference « Progress in Sustainable Development: Science and Engineering in Service of Ecological and Energy Transition »
Ilias El Ouahabi, PhD student in wood engineering and bio-based materials under the supervision of Véronique Landry, had the opportunity to participate in the first edition of the conference “Progress in Sustainable Development: Science and Engineering in Service of Ecological and Energy Transition,” held from October 16 to 18, 2024, in Chicoutimi. This event, organized by the Université du Québec à Chicoutimi, brought together academic researchers and industry professionals involved in the scientific, technological, and societal fields of sustainable development. The conference offered a conducive space for the exchange of ideas and collaboration between key players in research and industry to address the challenges of the ecological transition.
On this occasion, Ilias presented his initial results in the form of a poster, showcasing the progress of his research project titled “Development of bio-based adhesives from saccharides without formaldehyde emissions.” His project aims to create eco-friendly bio-adhesives using lactose, promoting a more environmentally friendly wood industry.
Congratulations to Ilias on this remarkable achievement! We wish him continued success in his academic and professional career.
Project Summary: Development of bio-based adhesives from saccharides without formaldehyde emissions
The research project aims to develop bio-based adhesives using saccharides to meet the demand for eco-friendly materials with low environmental impact in the wood composite panel industry. By using polysaccharide-derived resins — renewable and sustainable resources — this project offers an alternative to petroleum-based synthetic adhesives, often associated with formaldehyde emissions, a volatile organic compound and carcinogen.
The approach includes chemical modifications of the bio-adhesives, such as esterification and amidation, to improve their adhesion and water resistance. These modifications strengthen molecular interactions between polysaccharides and reactive agents like citric acid and diethylenetriamine (DETA), resulting in more stable and high-performance adhesives.
The expected outcomes of this project will contribute to advancing knowledge on the chemical interactions of polysaccharides and their impact on the mechanical properties and durability of adhesives. This project aims to offer high-performance bio-based solutions for a more environmentally friendly industry and human health through a solid methodology involving spectroscopic, thermal, and mechanical analyses.