Innovate, Validate, Commercialize

The PDC is a shared collaboration facility where researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders work together to develop new products and improve manufacturing processes. We work closely with our partners to meet the emerging and constantly shifting needs of the marketplace. This sharing of resources has led to important technological advances, cleaner and more efficient processes, and products that improve quality of life. Some of the PDC’s focus areas include:

Basic Research in Support of the Forest- and Agriculturally-Based Products Sector

Basic research at the PDC has helped our clients to optimize refining and stock preparation, bleaching methods, and coating formulations. This work has improved operations and has led to more sustainable products and practices. The flexibility and open access to the PDC’s research staff and facilities enables rapid and strategic responses to market, manufacturing, and environmental demands.

New Product Development

Changing markets and shifting economic conditions affect the vitality of the forest and allied products industry, offering both challenges and opportunities. The PDC has a long track record of collaborating with partners to support traditional manufacturing as well as to create entirely new products from forest-based raw materials. We are currently working on advanced fiber processing technologies, developing specialized, scalable nanotechnologies, and co-developing “green” products to meet market demands for sustainable products.  The PDC is also working with a dedicated group of organizations to help launch a new bioplastics industry in Maine and to engineer plastic from potatoes and/or wood by-products.  

The Path to Commercialization

Advancing a product from concept to commercial success can sometimes seem a daunting prospect. This is especially true for start-up companies who may not have the facilities or the staff to bring their idea to market. The staff and facility at UMaine and the PDC offers you open access to all of our resources. We will support you throughout the entire process – from concept development, validation, pilot demonstration, and through to successful commercialization. Some examples of recently licensed technologies include a bio-based, non-toxic oil and grease resistant coating for food-packaging, a flame resistant fiberboard used in commercial roofing applications, and a biodegradable landfill cover that controls fugitive odors.

Selected Projects

For a more in-depth at look at some of the PDC’s work, click here.