Doctoral researcher Tooba Qureshi recently completed a research visit at the University of Nottingham, UK, where she advanced her doctoral work on the production lyocell fibers. The visit focused on learning the Crystal Ball software and applying uncertainty analysis to assess the economic feasibility of producing lyocell staple fibers using conventional wood-based dissolving pulp and alternative second-generation pulps derived from agricultural residues such as wheat straw, oat husk, and hemp.
Dr. Ioanna Dimitriou hosted the visit at the University of Nottingham, providing an opportunity to strengthen international research collaboration, gain hands-on experience with new analytical tools, and generate results with publication potential. During the three-month stay, Qureshi worked with Crystal Ball software, a widely used tool for risk and uncertainty analysis, to evaluate how fluctuations in key cost parameters affect the minimum selling price (MSP) of lyocell staple fibers.
Lyocell fiber is a competitive fiber with a potential to grow significantly in the market by the end of 2030; however, the current production costs remain a key challenge for wider market competitiveness. Qureshi’s research addresses this challenge by examining how introducing alternative second-generation feedstocks with uncertain costs affects the final lyocell fiber price.
Qureshi applied a Monte Carlo simulation approach to evaluate cost uncertainty. By running thousands of trials, with all variables changing simultaneously according to their probability. The method estimates the probability distribution of a final result—in this case, the MSP of lyocell staple fiber.
The results suggest that while agricultural residues such as wheat straw may offer a promising route for reducing dependence on wood-based dissolving pulp, the impact on the final fiber price may remain limited under current market assumptions.
This finding is important for both industry and decision makers. It highlights that technological substitution alone may not be enough to ensure cost competitiveness. Broader economic and policy frameworks may be needed to support the transition toward more sustainable raw materials in textile fiber production.
Beyond the technical outcomes, the research visit provided valuable academic and professional development. Qureshi participated in monthly meetings with Dr. Dimitriou’s research group and a collaborating research group, where she presented her doctoral research, her research group, and the work supported by BIC.
Reflecting on the visit, Qureshi described it as a “fantastic boost” to her doctoral studies. She gained experience with new software, strengthened her research methodology, and developed results that can contribute to future scientific publications.
Qureshi expressed her gratitude to Bioinnovation Center, her home supervisor Luana Dessbesell, and her visiting supervisor Ioanna Dimitriou for their support throughout the visit. She also acknowledged the importance of the support that enabled her to travel with her son, which contributed positively to the success of the research stay.
This work was done with the support from Jane and Aatos Erkko foundation.
To achieve human wellbeing in planetary boundaries, we need new sustainable solutions to wisely use our natural resources. The Bioinnovation Center especially focuses on innovations in sustainable bio-based materials, with special focus on textiles and packaging.
