Meri Lundahl

My research concerns circular, biobased, and regenerative materials. At the moment, I work on textile recycling in a open loop into construction material applications. I develop technologies for refining unsorted textile waste into versatile forms where its properties are beneficial. This enables the manufacture of valuable products, such as composites, insulation materials, or additives for concrete, with minimal need for processing.

I specialise in chemical and mechanical modification of cellulose and other polymers. I am also experienced with fibre spinning, carbonized materials, and functional materials such as magnetic composites. Among analytical techniques, I specialise in rheology (i.e., flow behaviour) and water interactions, which critically affect the practical applicability of materials. Also I have experience in life cycle assessment (LCA), which is critical for the estimation of the environmental benefits of new innovations. 

Beyond innovations with just a biological origin or circular production system, my intention is to create regenerative materials with life cycles that contribute positively to resolving current environmental challenges. This could involve materials with origins in regenerative agricultural practices, remediation of polluted ecosystems, carbon sequestration, removal of excess nutrients to decrease eutrofication, purification of air or water, or other truly positive effects on human/ecosystem health. My passions include nature-positive and symbiotic materials integrated in natural or technical cycles, with potential for distributed production using local resources.