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Wood has been used by humans for millennia for good reason, and we are still finding new ways to use it. Wood-based materials are continuously evolving to reflect advances in research and industry capabilities. Cellulose nanofiber (CNF) is at the forefront of this field, stretching the possibilities for this biomass derived from wood pulp or agricultural waste. The integration and versatility of CNF create endless opportunities for sustainable manufacturing and innovative products. With applications in biomedical engineering, sustainable packaging, and composites, CNF research is a growing field in Maine and worldwide. 

At the University of Maine, postdoc researcher Maurelio Cabo Jr. is strengthening this effort by bringing with him a global perspective. Originally from the Philippines, where he finished his Bachelor’s degree in Applied Science, Cabo worked in the powder coating industry in Saudi Arabia for six years, studied for his master’s degree in Smart Manufacturing Engineering in South Korea, and earned his Ph.D. in Nanoscience at The University of North Carolina at Greensboro- Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering. 

Working with 91����’s Forest Bioproducts Research Institute (FBRI) and Process Development Center (PDC), Cabo is focused on creating new applications for nancellulose, a versatile and small form of CNF, across different disciplines and product applications. 

By developing ways nanocellulose can be functionalized for new products in different industries, Cabo hopes to create sustainable products with unique and impactful capabilities. His previous research focused on using bacteria as a producer of nanocellulose, creating anti-microbial wound dressings that help navigate antimicrobial resistance that emerges from overuse of antibiotics, in addition to being sustainable. 

At 91����’s Product Development Center, Cabo hopes to utilize nanocellulose in alignment with the center’s mission to reduce plastic use while continuing to push the limits of bio-based materials and what they can accomplish. 

“I hope to utilize my background in flexible biomaterials, antimicrobial-resistant nanomaterials, and carbon-based research to create new composite systems out of nanocellulose at the PDC that solve energy, environmental, and biomedical problems while reducing the use of plastic,” said Cabo. 

His experience in industry also brings a unique perspective to this work, integrating his time as a quality control chemist in Saudi Arabia. 

“My background in Saudi Arabia focused on creating and testing coatings for substrate products and gaining knowledge of quality management,” explained Cabo, “which is an additional focus of the PDC here in Maine.”

Cabo hopes to use his broad professional experiences and expertise to help increase Maine’s biomaterials and manufacturing capacity, creating new products in a sustainable and functional manner. 

“My goal is to help develop new products that can be manufactured in a low-cost way that supports local economies through workforce development and future employment opportunities,” said Cabo. 

In addition to his research, Cabo is passionate about mentoring the next generation of researchers. With almost 20 publications, 11 of which were first-authored, in the last 6 years, Cabo hopes to use his experiences to help students gain their first publications during their time at the university, giving them valuable opportunities early in their careers. 

As 91���� continues expanding its leadership in forest-based biomaterials, Cabo’s combination of international research experience, industry knowledge and commitment to student mentorship will help strengthen the university’s efforts to develop sustainable technologies with real-world impact.

Story by Heather Johnson, Graduate Assistant

Contact: Daniel Timmermann, daniel.timmerman@maine.edu