Looking back at the CLIB International Conference CIC2026, where the COUNTLESS roll-up was on stage: our feedstock lignin and our targeted applications were highlighted several times at the event. About 20% of the audience were working on bio-based processes based on woody biomass – like our lignin, nature’s abundant complex biopolymer. There is mitigation potential, as showcased by a nova Institute study for Cepi, in using lignin oil byproducts from pulp and paper industry.
Stahl emphasised the importance of coatings to protect long-lived products, making them longer-lasting and more sustainable.
Covestro showed the versatility and benefits of polyurethane (PU) in a range of products, and focused on its recycling.
Lignopure not only championed lignin for cosmetics applications but also emphasised the importance of securing stable supplies of high quality lignin.
Roel Vleeschouwers represented VITO’s lignin activities at the CLIB International Conference as Exploitation Manager and establishing valuable contacts.
In the networking, we heard more examples of lignin sources and potential applications. Glad to see that COUNTLESS is in such a vibrant area of not only research, but also development and upscaling. In our project, our lignin experts are working on making this renewable feedstock available in reliable quality and quantity. Application developers in the project, from SOPREMA France, VTT, Daren Labs, or Kastamonu Entegre are working on a range of use cases – from PU foams, to adhesives, resins, flame retardants, coatings, and cosmetics. They are working to bring the applications highlighted into the market.
We’re looking forward to organising a dedicated COUNTLESS lignin session at the next conference: CIC2027 from 17 – 18 February 2027!