During her visit, she toured the Nanotechnology Centre, one of CEET’s research units, where she met with colleagues from CNT and FMST to discuss further development of cooperation within the international CirkArena consortium, which also includes the Faculty of Materials Science and Technology.
The main focus of the meeting was joint research on polymer composites, biomass utilization, and their applications in the circular economy. Discussions primarily addressed efficient use of renewable materials, novel approaches to polymer processing, and their broader industrial applications.
The visit also included a tour of CEET’s laboratory facilities in the CMV building. Ongoing research projects and the technical infrastructure of the laboratories were presented. Anna Keskisaari highlighted the high technological standard of the facilities and their interdisciplinary nature, integrating materials science, energy, and environmental research.
Anna Keskisaari’s research activities are long-term focused on advancing the circular economy in the field of polymers. Her work emphasizes sustainable use and recycling of polymer materials, aiming to contribute to the transformation of the plastics industry in Finland by 2035. LAB University of Applied Sciences carries out numerous research and innovation activities in this area, including projects focused on material innovation and advanced recycling technologies.
“The meeting has motivated us to further strengthen cooperation between CEET and LAB University of Applied Sciences. We intend to focus particularly on joint research in biodegradable plastics and advanced polymer materials, exchange programs for early-career researchers, and the preparation of joint projects, especially within EU funding schemes,” said Grażyna Simha Martynková, Director of the Nanotechnology Centre.
The visit confirmed the importance of international collaboration for the development of applied research. Combining CEET’s expertise with the application-oriented approach of LAB University of Applied Sciences creates strong conditions for developing innovative solutions with practical impact in the field of circular economy and sustainable materials.