ANDRITZ Oy and LUT University Open New Fibre Research Laboratory in Lahti, Finland
ANDRITZ Oy, part of international technology group ANDRITZ, and LUT University (Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology LUT) launched an extensive collaboration in the field of fibre technology a year ago.
As a result, a new state-of-the-art research laboratory for the joint development of sustainable fibre technologies opened at the LUT campus in Lahti in November 2022. The unique corporate collaboration model is a substantial step towards a new way of sharing infrastructures and intensifying research work with external partners.
The new research laboratory and LUT’s academic expertise bring added value to ANDRITZ’s own research and innovation. Collaboration with LUT strongly supports ANDRITZ’s development of highly efficient, sustainable products and technologies. In addition, ANDRITZ aims to strengthen its position as a pioneer in innovative technologies whilst supporting its position as one of the most attractive employers in the Finish fibre industry.
Kari Tuominen, President and CEO of ANDRITZ Oy, said, “Locating the research laboratory in Lahti will enable close collaboration between ANDRITZ and LUT researchers. Our cooperation has always been fruitful and effortless for both parties. We’re glad that LUT managed to build the laboratory nearly on schedule despite the logistical challenges related to the global situation.”
“The brand-new laboratory enables us to study, test and analyse on biomass-based fibres and fibre products even better than before. The new facilities will meet the needs of LUT research groups, ANDRITZ and regional industry,” added Mari Kallioinen-Mänttäri, LUT University Dean.
The aim is to strengthen the bioeconomy cluster in the Lahti area and support the start-up and growth of new businesses. Biorefinery research currently employs four professors and ten researchers on the Lahti campus. LUT aims to increase the overall number to 40 in the near future.
Mari Kallioinen-Mänttäri points out that such a large-scale investment would not have been possible without considerable financial support by the university’s partners.
“Collaboration with ANDRITZ constitutes one of the largest business commissions in LUT’s history. In addition to current joint research, we are exploring possibilities to expand our collaboration beyond fiber research. For students, it will mean more thesis and job opportunities,”said Mari Kallioinen-Mänttäri.
About ANDRITZ OY
ANDRITZ Oy is a leading global supplier of systems, equipment and services for the pulp and paper industry including wood processing, fiber processing, chemical recovery, and stock preparation. In addition, ANDRITZ Oy offers biomass boilers and gasification plants for energy production. ANDRITZ Hydro Oy, located in Tampere, delivers systems, equipment, and services for hydraulic power generation. The number of employees of ANDRITZ companies in Finland is approximately 1 600. The Center of Excellence are Kerava, Kotka, Lahti, Lappeenranta, Savonlinna, Tampere, Vantaa, and Varkaus. The Headquarters are located in Helsinki, Finland. President and CEO is Kari Tuominen. The company is owned by ANDRITZ AG of Austria.
About LUT UNIVERSITY
Clean energy, water and air are life-giving resources for which LUT University seeks new solutions with its expertise in technology, business and social sciences. It helps society and businesses in their sustainable renewal. LUT University international community consists of 7 500 members. Its campuses are in Lappeenranta and Lahti, Finland. It is the world’s ninth best university for climate action. lut.fi/en