Speakers

Dr. Zhiyong Cai received his PhD degree from Purdue University. He is currently leading a group of research scientists developing new and improved composites from wood and other non-wood fiber sources using thermoset, thermoplastic, inorganic, and other naturally-derived binders. He has over 150 publications and 100 presentations related to the bio-based material research and has over 20 proposals funded. He is the fellow of International Academy of Wood Science and co-chaired two international conferences.

USDA Forest Service a multi-faceted federal agency that manages and protects 154 national forests and 20 grasslands in 44 states and Puerto Rico. The agency's mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations.