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Five ways biomaterials could improve your health

Wood is a source of many healthy agents
Kuvituskuva biomateriaaleista
Image: Iisa Pappi

1. Forest biomaterials can be used to make new high performance and safe medical products. Bacterial cellulose, for example, is a promising material for implants, wound dressing and artificial blood vessels.

2. Biomaterials can improve the performance of air and water filtration and purification devices, diminishing costs.

3. In personal care, biomaterials are suitable for strong, absorbent and biodegradable personal hygiene products. They can also be used as stabilisers of creams, lotions and emulsions.

4. Thermoplastic cellulose can be used for food packaging. Like plastic, it protects the content from moisture and water and ensures the safe use of foods for longer periods of time. Cellulose is a safe, renewable and recyclable material.

5. Wood is a source of many healthy agents, such as bioactives, which can be used for health-enhancing food. Plant nanocelluloses are sources for gelling and viscosifying agents. There is potential for use as natural and safe additives in food products, such as ice cream and yoghourt, to improve their texture.

- Professor of Biobased Materials Orlando Rojas

From clean energy to personalized medicine – a book about the power of the university

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Aalto Effect book cover / Photo by Mikko Raskinen
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