The Process Development Center

Thermoformed Molded Fiber Symposium

New for 2024!

December 10-11, 2024 – Wells Conference Center, University of Maine

Join us for this first of its kind symposium dedicated to thermoforming fiber, from wood to non-woods. Learn about the latest technical developments and current trends in producing thermoformed molded fiber at this day-and-a-half symposium.

Registration: $250

Preliminary Schedule

Tuesday – December 10, 2024

8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

• Panel: Optimizing Stock Prep
  • “Fibers for Thermforming: 201” – Nick Palumbo, Brueckner Group USA
  • Tina Lawton, Director, Sales & Technology, Stock Prep & Recycle, North America, Valmet
  • “Simplified Stock Prep for Molded Fiber” – Matt Job, President, Motus US
• “Thermoformed Molded Fiber Formation Study”
  • Karl Palmer, Kiefel Packaging and Brennon Harrison, Solenis
• “Quantifying Fiber Formation”
  • Matt Griswold, Vice President of Innovation. Genera
• “3D Printing Tools for Thermoforming”
  • Jonathan Roy, Research Engineer, Advanced Structures and Composites Center, University of Maine
• “Dispersion barrier coating for 3D Molded Fiber (MF) – Overview of Surface Application Technology”
  • Chuantao Zhu, Molded Fiber Application Expert, Barriers & Coatings, Solenis
• “Barrier Coating Testing and Validation” – Matt Job, Motus US
• “Foodservice Packaging Policy Landscape”
  • Carol Patterson, Vice President, Government Relations, Foodservice Packaging Institute
• “Compostability in Packaging – Testing, Certifications and Regulations”
  • Emily Parsons, Solenis

NEW! 5:00 – 6:00 PM – Join us for a reception at the new Central Pub on the first floor of the Wells Conference Center.

Wednesday – December 11, 2024

9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

• Manufacturer’s Panel
  • Moderator: Chelsea Cross, Business Development Manager – Barriers and Molded Fiber, Solenis
  • Participants:
    • Matt Griswold, Vice President of Innovation, Genera
    • Scott Lilley, President, Rev1
    • Dustin Ziegelman, Process & Engineering Manager, Sabert
    • Melissa LaCasse, CEO and Co-Founder, Tanbark Molded Fiber Products
    • Asem Mokaddem, President, Tellus
• “Considering USDA Checkoff Programs for A Stronger Market Position for Molded Pulp”
  • Teal Edelen, Director – Forests, U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities
• Tours and Demonstrations at the Process Development Center
  • Tour the Process Development Center and the Advanced Structures and Composites Center
    • The ASCC tours are full.
  • Lunch and Student Poster Display in Jenness Hall lobby