From the Shores of Jūrmala to the International Stage of Science: Latvian Students’ Innovation in Papermaking
We are proud of Jānis Poots and Valters Tolks, students from Riga State German Grammar School, who have not only developed a unique and sustainable alternative to traditional paper, but also earned First Place at the 49th National Conference of Student Scientific Research Projects with their work “Paper Production Using Green Algae (Chlorophyta).” Their outstanding achievement has secured them a spot among Latvia’s representatives at the international Genius Olympiad in the United States.
What makes this project special?
Jānis and Valters explored how to utilize discarded coastal green algae for paper production while completely avoiding environmentally harmful bleaching processes. The boys developed a technology in which the only chemical reagent used was sodium hydroxide (NaOH), ensuring minimal toxic emissions.
They collected algae from the beach, carefully processed, dried, and boiled them for different time intervals (60, 90, and 120 minutes) to determine the optimal mechanical properties. In collaboration with the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry (LSIWC), the young researchers created and tested experimental paper, while the algae pulp was prepared in laboratories at Riga Technical University (RTU) and the University of Latvia (LU).
The paper production process was carried out at LSIWC using the laboratory-scale paper machine “Rapid-Köthen Sheet Former,” and tensile strength tests were also performed.
- For the algae fiber pulp, a 5% NaOH solution was used in a 1:12 ratio (50 g of algae to 570 ml of water).
- Paper yield: 22.8% of paper was obtained from the initial dry mass.
Their supervisor at LSIWC, Dr.sc.ing. Inese Fiļipova, shared:
The boys were highly motivated and well-prepared, which enabled efficient and goal-oriented work. The collaboration was constructive – they quickly mastered the necessary technical skills, produced paper, and measured its mechanical strength. This result proves how much talented young people can achieve when they have access to a professional scientific environment and support.
Key results:
- The paper made from algae boiled for 120 minutes showed the highest tensile strength – 1360.43 N/m – surpassing several commercially available paper grades.
- The material is beige, unbleached, visually natural, and pleasantly coarse – well-suited for ecological packaging or corrugated cardboard.
- The production process is environmentally friendly, supports the local circular economy, reduces dependence on imports, and helps address coastal pollution.
Jānis and Valters’ work demonstrates that even at the high school level, it is possible to carry out an interdisciplinary scientific project combining biology, chemical engineering, and environmental sustainability.
Their creativity and perseverance inspire us all.
The two young researchers are currently on their way to the United States, where from June 9 to 13, they will represent Latvia at the Genius Olympiad 2025, held at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). There, they will present their ideas in English, competing with hundreds of students from around the world.
We believe this is only the beginning! We wish the boys strength and passion to be part of meaningful change!
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