School of Chemical Engineering

We are tackling challenges related to the sustainable use of natural resources, the circular economy and a clean environment.

Aalto’s research and innovations impact your everyday life. Whether it’s a breakthrough in detecting memory disorders, a sustainable alternative to cement, or turning ideas into startups, you too are connected �� – and have many reasons to donate.

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VTT, Aalto University and GTK: How to ensure Finland captures the multi‑billion growth potential of mineral economy

Finland is rising to the forefront of the mineral economy through new research initiatives and closer collaboration

A close-up of various electronic waste pieces, including circuit boards, wires, and metal fragments in different colours.

Nikolai Ponomarev, Hossein Baniasadi and Jorge Velasco start as Data Agents at the School of Chemical Engineering

Aalto Open Research Network has new members, Nikolai Ponomarev, Hossein Baniasadi and Jorge Velasco. Their aim is to support data management practices at the School of Chemical Engineering along with existing CHEM Data Agent, Pedro Silva.

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Smart textiles are reshaping our understanding of materials – and interspecies communication

The PAST-A-BOT research project, funded by the European Research Council (ERC), is developing soft, intelligent textiles that could one day function as rescue robots, sound-sensing agricultural fabrics, or assistive clothing. At the same time, the project aims to rethink the way we approach materials research.

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A paradigm shift: machine learning is transforming research at the atomic scale

Assistant professor Miguel Caro and his research group use and develop machine learning tools to accelerate discoveries from simulation to experiment

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Cooperation, Studies, University Published: 5.3.2026

Register for the Transregional Online Living Labs Day 2026

Join Unite!’s international, online conference to explore how University Campus Living Labs connect research, education and practice.

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Appointments, Cooperation Published: 4.3.2026

Hannu Martola appointed as Chair of the Aalto University Alumni Network Board

The board’s new members are Esa Arola, Eila Lindroos and Terttu Sopanen. Continuing members are Ari Bertula, Ossi Leikola, Laura Nikola and Katja Soini.

Research & Art Published: 4.3.2026

VTT, Aalto University and GTK: How to ensure Finland captures the multi‑billion growth potential of mineral economy

Finland is rising to the forefront of the mineral economy through new research initiatives and closer collaboration

Cooperation, Studies, University Published: 17.2.2026

Join a Unite! matchmaking event on forging new consortia for Horizon Europe applications

Calling researchers and industry partners to connect at a virtual matchmaking session designed to spark project collaborations for Horizon Europe funding. Registration deadline, 12 March.

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11.3.

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Campus, Other, Students 11.3.2026 11:00 – 14:00 (UTC +2)

A feel-good event in Alvar Aalto Park

On Wednesday, March 11th, from 11 am to 2 pm, a feel-good event will be held during students' mental health week. Welcome!

12.3.

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Lectures and seminars, Staff trainings, IT & digital tools, Support for teams, Training to support research 12.3.2026 13:00 – 14:30 (UTC +2)

Learn about research software publishing with Luca Ferranti and the RSEs.

13.3.

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Public defences 13.3.2026 10:00 – 14:00 (UTC +2)

Public defence in Biotechnology, MSc Tejas Somvanshi

Unlocking the hidden metabolic potential of Methanosarcina acetivorans

13.3.

Public defences 13.3.2026 12:00 – 16:00 (UTC +2)

Public defence in Processing of Materials, MSc Minerva Vierunketo

Evaluation of battery recycling processes using exentropy: a novel multi-dimensional circularity indicator of materials concentration and energy preservation

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Join us at Aalto University School of Chemical Engineering!

Read student stories, learn about our guilds and what it is like to study here!

A group of chemical engineering students in front of the CHEM main building.

Blog posts by Aalto Squad student ambassadors. Read all about student life and studies at Aalto University!

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Lignocellulose samples by Mohamed Magd. Photo: Valeria Azovskaya

Enabling bio and circular economy

Sustainable future with high performance products

World-class materials research

What if we had wood-based colours that never faded?

The color is nontoxic, produced 100% from wood, and can be industrially and economically produced.

What if the colour of your jeans grew in your garden?

We explore how to produce and utilise natural dyes derived from plants in a sustainable way.

What if metals could be protected with wood?

In its pure, additive-free form, lignin coatings have already been proven to be effective in minimising the corrosion of metal surfaces.

What if solar cells could be made out of fish scales?

We are exploring how natural materials like wood or organic byproducts – or even waste like fish scales – could be used for solar cells.

What if you could 3D print custom bone implants?

Thanks to 3D printing, we can manufacture individualized, custom implants that enhance bone growth and degrade as the patient heals.

Bacterial cellulose in bowl on a yellow backround

What if bandages could be grown by bacteria?

Although some bacterial colonies can threaten human life, bacteria can be used to produce essential molecules and materials like bacterial cellulose.

What if cattle all over the world were eating Finnish wood?

Microcrystalline cellulose is truly a power food for ruminants, and so it could be used to raise the caloric density of animal feed.

What if the textiles of the future are growing in Finnish forests?

Ioncell, a fibre woven from cellulose, is a strong contender as a sustainable alternative to cotton and polyester.

What if chemists were also programmers?

When modelling chemical engineering processes, programming skills are essential – and understanding programming basics is an asset in many other tasks as well.

What if every engineer thought like an artist?

Breaking out of one’s own bubble challenges the brain and changes attitudes. This is why arts courses at Aalto are available to everyone.

At Aalto University, we believe in the power of curiosity. We encourage our students and staff to explore the unknown, learn and do things in completely new ways – to break boundaries together.

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We cooperate with the business world and host numerous competence centers