Nanocellulose: A Fundamental Material for Science and Technology Applications

Abstract

Recently, considerable interest has been focused on developing greener and biodegradable materials due to growing environmental concerns. Owing to their low cost, biodegradability, and good mechanical properties, plant fibers have substituted synthetic fibers in the preparation of composites. However, the poor interfacial adhesion due to the hydrophilic nature and high-water absorption limits the use of plant fibers as a reinforcing agent in polymer matrices. The hydrophilic nature of the plant fibers can be overcome by chemical treatments. Cellulose the most abundant natural polymer obtained from sources such as plants, wood, and bacteria has gained wider attention these days. Different methods, such as mechanical, chemical, and chemical treatments in combination with mechanical treatments, have been adopted by researchers for the extraction of cellulose from plants, bacteria, algae, etc. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), cellulose nanofibrils (CNF), and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) have been extracted and used for different applications such as food packaging, water purification, drug delivery, and in composites. In this review, updated information on the methods of isolation of nanocellulose, classification, characterization, and application of nanocellulose has been highlighted. The characteristics and the current status of cellulose-based fiber-reinforced polymer composites in the industry have also been discussed in detail.

Upcycling Food By‐products: Characteristics and Applications of Nanocellulose

“…The length of these nanocellulose usually varies between 70 to 500 nm. During the extraction process, the amorphous regions of cellulose become more exposed and susceptible to acid hydrolysis due to kinetic factors and reduced steric hindrance [167] . In contrast, the crystalline areas are more resistant to this process [167] Therefore, CNCs are effectively produced by removing these amorphous areas from the defects in the microcrystalline cellulose structure.…”

“…During the extraction process, the amorphous regions of cellulose become more exposed and susceptible to acid hydrolysis due to kinetic factors and reduced steric hindrance [167] . In contrast, the crystalline areas are more resistant to this process [167] Therefore, CNCs are effectively produced by removing these amorphous areas from the defects in the microcrystalline cellulose structure. Notably, CNCs are shorter in length compared to other nanocellulose types, leading to an aspect ratio typically ranging from 1 to 50 [168] .…”

Recent Developments in Biobased Foams and Foam Composites for Construction Applications

“…These morphological differences result in substantially different properties (for example CNCs exhibit tensile strengths > 5 GPa – much greater than CNFs (< 500 MPa)) and application prospects 230. More information on CNCs, CNFs and their differences are reviewed in 229, 230, 232–234.…”

Biodegradable Nanofibrillated Cellulose/Poly-(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) Composite Film with Enhanced Barrier Properties for Food Packaging

“…), man-made biodegradable polymers (Poly-(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate), poly (lactic acid), Polypropylene carbonate, Polyhydroxyalkanoates, Polybutylene succinate, etc.) are the focus of researchers in recent years, which will be conducive to the overall development of the economy and society, and the harmonious coexistence of human and nature [ 3 , 4 , 5 ].…”