Pal ARMI

Advanced Resources and Material Innovation (ARMI)

Pal ARMI is focused on fundamental science, engineering and advanced research towards NET-ZERO operations with strong public, industry, academic, and other stakeholders outreach and partnership for high value consumer bioproducts such as fibers, composites, packaging, tissue and hygiene, and molded products amongst others in a circular economy to address the global challenges of human health, sustainability, food security, and environment.

driving innovation and sustainable change

Research

AI-driven sustainable materials, smart manufacturing, and bio-based innovations to advance energy efficiency, packaging technologies, and Industry 4.0 applications

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Teaching

Fostering innovation, critical thinking, and hands-on learning to equip students with expertise in process engineering, data analysis, and sustainable manufacturing

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Services

Providing comprehensive testing for materials and coatings, including barrier assessments, printability analysis, and pilot-scale papermaking

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Dr. Lokendra Pal

Dr. Lokendra Pal is an EJ Woody Rice Professor at North Carolina State University expert in sustainable materials and smart manufacturing, with over 23 years of experience, he has made significant contributions to biodegradable materials, industrial process optimization, and AI-driven manufacturing. Before academia, he spent nine years at Hewlett-Packard, where he played a pivotal role in advancing materials science and manufacturing efficiency.

His expertise bridges research and real-world applications, driving innovation in multiple industries. He holds a Ph.D. in Paper and Imaging Science and Engineering from Western Michigan University. Dr. Pal is also a Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and a Quality System Assessment Auditor.

Contact Us

Dr. Lokendra Pal, EJ Woody Rice Professor

 Department of Forest Biomaterials
NC State University

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Smart Manufacturing Innovation Center (SMIC)

In collaboration with CESMII, NC State launched the Smart Manufacturing Innovation Center to digitize the pulp and paper industry using sensors, intelligent controls, and machine learning. The center, housed in a 51,000 sq. ft. facility, promotes training, research, and industry collaboration.

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War on plastics pollution gains new weapon – it’s a biomaterial – from NCSU researchers

Dr. Lokendra Pal and Lucian Lucia developed a biodegradable alternative to Styrofoam, using sawdust powder and agricultural residues. This innovation offers a sustainable packaging and food service solution, addressing the global plastic pollution crisis

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NC State develops artificial intelligence to improve recycling efficiency

Dr. Pal’s team developed a system using smart sensors, visual cameras, and hyperspectral imaging to analyze and sort waste in real time. This automated recycling technology supports a circular economy, enabling the recovery of energy, fuel, and reusable materials.

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Opportunities

PAL Group is currently looking for graduate students with a strong background in chemistry, engineering (paper, chemical, materials, etc.), polymer science, and/or biotechnology and a passion for research in advanced sustainable bioproducts such as smart packaging and barrier coatings.

Please feel free to email your resume to lpal@ncsu.edu.