News

On 25 September, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry (LVKĶI) will invite visitors to take a closer look at the daily work of scientists, explore the institute’s laboratories, and discover how wood and other biomass can be used to develop new materials, products and technologies. The event will take place as part of European Researchers’ Night 2026, whose unifying theme this year is “Discover the Nature of Science!” During Researchers’ Night, visitors will have the opportunity to explore laboratories, meet scientists, ask questions, and take part in...

The research infrastructure of the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry (LSIWC) has been supplemented with a new scanning electron microscope (SEM), which can operate in both high- and low-vacuum modes, expanding its applications in materials structure research. The new microscope is equipped with detectors that enable both high-resolution imaging of material surface structures and qualitative and quantitative analysis of the chemical elements present in the material under study. The design of the new equipment also allows for the integration of additional detectors in the future. The new...

The Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry (LSIWC) has joined a new EU-funded research and staff exchange project, GREEN-MEM, which aims to develop a new generation of eco-designed, bio-based and recyclable membranes for water and wastewater treatment. Membranes play an essential role in water and wastewater treatment, but the membranes themselves are often made from fossil-derived polymers using hazardous solvents. Some membranes also contain fluorinated materials that can contribute to persistent chemical pollution and microplastics. GREEN-MEM addresses this challenge across the entire...

The long-standing collaboration between the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry (LSIWC) and CLEANTECH LATVIA has, in recent years, created opportunities to implement several significant initiatives. With the support of the cluster, the FIBRIX project proposal was further strengthened, and the Institute was also able to participate in the international Leap4Growth innovation mission to Hong Kong and Shenzhen. CLEANTECH LATVIA is a cross-sectoral innovation cluster operating in the fields of the bioeconomy, clean technologies, and the circular economy. The cluster supports companies and...

The latest issue of the international magazine BNN Quarterly features an interview with Laura Andže, Leading Researcher and Vice-Chair of the Scientific Council at the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry (LSIWC). The issue, titled Women at the Forefront of Science & Innovation, highlights women scientists whose work is driving innovation and shaping the technologies of the future. In the interview, Laura reflects on her journey in science, from her early interest in chemistry and international research experience to her work at the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry and the...

The project "Study of obtaining, production and application of high specific surface area birch outer bark betulin particles in dispersed systems" (Project No. 1.1.1.1/20/A/071), implemented by the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry (LSIWC), has been selected as a finalist in the European Commission's "REGIOSTARS Awards 2026". Out of a record 274 applications, only 25 projects were shortlisted, including the LSIWC project, which is one of five finalists in the "A Green Europe" category. The "REGIOSTARS Awards" is the European Commission's annual competition recognising outstanding...