Lignin and Lignans

Cyril Heitner retired from Pulp and Paper Research Institute of Canada (now FPInnovations) after a 36-year career. He received his BSc in chemistry from Sir George Williams University in 1963, his MSc in physical organic chemistry from Dalhousie University in 1966, and his PhD in organic photochemistry from McGill University in 1971. Dr. Heitner has made significant scientific contributions in the area of chromophore chemistry of lignin-containing pulp and paper. This research has led to the development of a yellowing-inhibitor system that is close to commercial development.

Donald Dimmel, formerly of the Institute of Paper Science and Technology in Atlanta, has been retired from professional life since 2002 and lives in Prescott, Arizona. He received a BS in chemistry from the University of Minnesota in 1962 and a PhD in organic chemistry from Purdue University in 1966. He has authored 100 refereed technical publications and patents. His research interests concerned reducing the energy and environmental impact associated with producing paper pulps from wood. Much of his research focused on developing a better understanding of the chemistry of lignin removal and carbohydrate degradation reactions that occur during pulping and bleaching.

John A. Schmidt is a principal scientist at FPInnovations, Paprican Division, in Pointe-Claire, Quebec, Canada. Dr. Schmidt earned a BSc in chemistry from the University of Western Ontario in 1979 a PhD in 1986. He has published 38 articles in peer-reviewed journals, holds five patents, and is a recipient of TAPPI's Best Research Paper Award. Dr. Schmidt's research interests are the photochemistry of lignocellulosic materials, pulp bleaching, aging and stabilization of paper, and wood-derived bioproducts.