College of Agriculture & Natural Resources School of Packaging

Biography

Qiang Yang, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the School of Packaging (SoP) at Michigan State University (MSU). He joined MSU in August 2022. He earned his Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree in Pulp and Paper Engineering, first Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry and Physics (Zhejiang University), and second Ph.D. in Biological Systems Engineering (University of Wisconsin-Madison). His research expertise is in the areas of cellulosic materials, wood chemistry and sensors.

Google Scholar Information: Qiang Yang

Research Interest

Dr. Yang’s research interest focus on cellulosic material, sustainable cellulosic packaging, and active/intelligent cellulosic packaging. His research will be focused on, but not limited to, 1) low-cost cellulose and cellulose nanofiber from wood for low-cost cellulosic-based packaging; 2) novel cellulosic films, foams, and aerogels with improved barrier, mechanical and surface properties for packaging; 3) reuse of cellulosic-based packaging materials through enzymatic and mechanical treatments; 4) active and intelligent packaging materials (integrated with biosensors, gas sensors, chemical sensors, pH, and temperature indicators); 5) lignin-based coatings and cellulose nanocrystal-based inks for cellulosic-based packaging materials; and 6) conversions of unrecyclable cellulosic-based packaging materials to fuels and chemicals.

Teaching

PKG 322 Packaging with Paper and Paperboard