Dr. Arunjunai Raj MAHENDRAN
Position
Team Leader and Key Researcher at Kompetenzzentrum Holz GmbHEntity:
Kompetenzzentrum Holz GmbH (WOOD KPLUS)Country:
AustriaTheme: Printed Cellulose-Based Sensors for Process Optimisation and Structural Health Monitoring.
| Arunjunai Raj Mahendran completed his Habilitation in the field of sustainable bio-based polymers and composites, building on his doctoral research at the University of Leoben (Montanuniversität Leoben), Austria. He is currently a key researcher at Wood K Plus, where he leads innovative projects at the intersection of renewable materials, polymer chemistry, and functional composite technologies. With extensive expertise in natural fibre reinforcement and bio-based matrix resins, Dr. Mahendran’s current research explores the development of sensors made from renewable sources such as paper, textiles, and fungi (e.g. mycelium). His core focus lies in designing sustainable, energy-autonomous sensor systems, and integrating them into natural fibre composites for smart structural health monitoring, process control, and cure detection. He is actively working on the advancement of PEDOT:PSS-based humidity, temperature, and strain sensors, UV-curable bio-resins, and the development of smart, multifunctional composites that combine mechanical performance with embedded sensing capabilities. |
Abstract
| The transition toward sustainable industrial practices demands innovative materials that not only reduce environmental impact but also enable intelligent monitoring of products throughout their lifecycle. Sensors made from renewable raw materials, such as paper, offer a compelling alternative to conventional polymer-based sensors.This research presents the development of cost-effective, flexible paper-based sensors tailored for integration into composite materials. Unlike traditional sensors, which are often added as external elements and risk poor adhesion or compatibility, these sensors are embedded during manufacturing. Developed in collaboration with a specialized paper supplier, the sensor substrate has been optimized to ensure precise sensor patterns and reliable performance in harsh processing environments. The sensors are capable of detecting critical parameters such as curing behavior and moisture uptake, offering valuable insight into both the material state and structural condition. Sensor substrate optimization allows for the printing of well-defined, high-performance sensing elements. The sensors enable real-time monitoring of key factors such as moisture and curing, supporting predictive maintenance and improved resource efficiency. Overcoming challenges related to sensor integration in composites by eliminating external elements and ensuring strong bonding within the matrix. The technology addresses the growing market demand for sustainable, embedded sensor solutions aligned with environmental targets. |