Lili Cai

Lili Cai is an Assistant Professor of Forest & Sustainable Products at the College of Natural Resources, University of Idaho. She specializes in developing sustainable wood protection technologies and bio-based materials.

Her research program focuses on green wood preservatives, bio-based fire retardants, and wood modification techniques. She investigates natural compounds such as phytic acid and lauric arginate for dual protection against fungi and fire.

Cai's publications demonstrate consistent focus on sustainable material science with innovations in wood treatment technologies. Her work integrates chemistry, material science, and forest products engineering to develop eco-friendly alternatives to conventional wood preservatives.