Catherine Rosenfeld

Catherine Rosenfeld is a researcher at the Institute for Wood Technology and Renewable Resources within the Department of Natural Sciences and Sustainable Resources at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU). She completed her doctoral studies in Natural Resources and Life Sciences at BOKU Vienna from 2018 to 2023, focusing on sustainable wood adhesive technologies.

Dr. Rosenfeld's research centers on developing sustainable alternatives to conventional wood adhesives, with particular emphasis on carbohydrate-based and hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) derived bonding systems. Her work addresses critical challenges in creating formaldehyde-free adhesives for wood composites that maintain strong bonding properties while utilizing renewable resources. She has made significant contributions to understanding the chemorheological properties, cure kinetics, and performance characteristics of bio-based adhesive systems.

Her publication record demonstrates a consistent research trajectory toward sustainable adhesive technologies, with recent work focusing on scale-up of production processes, in-situ approaches to adhesive development, and detailed analysis of cure mechanisms. The research shows strong interdisciplinary connections between wood science, polymer chemistry, and green chemistry principles.

Scientific Recognition

• 2023: Houska Prize (3rd place) for 'Sustainable adhesive for wood materials and furniture'
• 2023: Science Future Prize (1st place) for dissertation 'Carbohydrate-based amino adhesives for wood-based materials'
• 2022: Science Award Rotary Club Tulln (1st place)
• 2022: ÖGUT Environmental Award in 'With RTI to the Circular Economy' category (1st place)
• 2021: tecnet/accent Innovation Award (1st place)

Dr. Rosenfeld actively participates in the scientific community through numerous conference presentations at international venues including Wood Adhesives conferences, European Adhesion Conferences, and biotechnology forums. Her research has practical implications for the wood products industry seeking more environmentally friendly manufacturing processes.