Noora Yau received a significant doctoral thesis award for Shimmering Wood
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Dr. Noora Yau wins the first place in the IAWS PhD Award 2025 for his groundbreaking work on cellulose chemistry and fiber engineering
The Finnish Natural Resources Research Foundation encourages young research students to specialise in research that promotes the sustainable use of Finland’s natural resources by granting an annual award of EUR 10,000 for a doctoral thesis that best advances the Foundation’s goals. This year, the prize went to Aalto University designer-researcher Noora Yau for her doctoral thesis, “Shimmering Wood – Experimenting with Nanocellulose-Based Structural Colour.” The work pioneers structural colors made from wood-derived nanocellulose, offering a plastic-free, biodegradable alternative to conventional metallic and pearlescent effects.
In nature, the vivid hues of beetles, peacocks and butterflies are examples of structural colour. Humans have been able to create similar effects for decades, but typically using plastics and metals that can contain lead or other toxic substances. Yau’s approach, developped together with materials scientist Konrad Klockars, produces a shimmering finish that is 100% wood and biodegrades in the environment.
The research is timely as demand grows for sustainable sparkle: the EU has banned loose plastic glitter, and microplastics remain a mounting global concern. Yau has since co-founded Shimber Oy to commercialize the technology for high-value products in fields from fashion and architecture to automotive and furniture. The company already serves international clients and is pursuing patents. “We value wood as a material and aim to elevate it — if you use it, use it well,” Yau noted.
Yau called the recognition “a great honor,” adding that the foundation’s values closely align with her work. “Sustainable resource use has been central to developing shimmering wood,” she said, thanking Aalto University and her interdisciplinary colleagues for their support.
Dr. Yau’s thesis is available online at: https://urn.fi/URN:ISBN:978-952-64-2547-4.
FinnCERES warmly congratulates Dr. Noora Yau on this well-deserved recognition!
