Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) has launched a new national research center to modernize the US pulp, paper, and packaging industry. The Center for Research and Advancement of Forest Product Technologies (CRAFT) will bring together national laboratories, universities, and businesses to improve manufacturing efficiency, lower costs, and strengthen US production.
The US Department of Energy (DOE) is supporting CRAFT through its Industrial Technologies Office. ORNL is leading the initiative in collaboration with the Department of Energy’s National Laboratory of the Rockies, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Idaho National Laboratory, and industry partners.
The center aims to connect scientific research with the needs of manufacturers. It will help companies test new technologies and move promising solutions from research laboratories into commercial production.
AI and smart manufacturing aim to boost productivity in paper and packaging industry
Daniel Coughlin, CRAFT’s executive director and a senior research and development staff member at ORNL, said much of the US pulp and paper industry relies on infrastructure that is decades old. He explained that the center will bring researchers and businesses together to help modernize production and support domestic manufacturers.
Improved pulping methods, chemical recovery, water removal
CRAFT will focus on several areas, including improved pulping methods, chemical recovery, water removal, drying, and digital manufacturing. These processes are important in turning wood and other plant materials into paper, packaging, and related products.
The center will also use artificial intelligence (AI), computer modelling, automation, and data analysis to help manufacturers identify problems and improve production. These tools could help mills reduce equipment downtime, use materials more efficiently, increase output, and lower operating costs.
Researchers will work with companies to identify key manufacturing challenges and test possible solutions at a pilot scale. This stage allows new technologies to be evaluated before businesses invest in larger industrial systems.
CRAFT will also support workforce development and technology commercialisation. By connecting equipment suppliers, manufacturers, researchers, and universities, the center aims to help promising ideas reach the market faster.
The initiative could help US paper and packaging manufacturers respond to changing market needs and compete globally. However, its impact will depend on research results, industry participation, and the successful adoption of new technologies.
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