Nanocellulose: a new ageless bionanomaterial

TLDR

Cellulose’s hierarchical structure enables extraction of abundant, low‑density, biodegradable nanoparticles with high mechanical strength, making them ideal for polymer nanocomposites. Mechanical shearing releases microfibrils, which are then longitudinally cut by strong acid hydrolysis to dissolve amorphous domains. The resulting nanocellulose exhibits a Young’s modulus of 100–130 GPa and a surface area of several hundred m² g⁻¹, highlighting its promising mechanical properties.

Abstract

Owing to the hierarchical structure of cellulose, nanoparticles can be extracted from this naturally occurring polymer. Multiple mechanical shearing actions allow the release of more or fewer individual microfibrils. Longitudinal cutting of these microfibrils can be achieved by a strong acid hydrolysis treatment, allowing dissolution of amorphous domains. The impressive mechanical properties, reinforcing capabilities, abundance, low density, and biodegradability of these nanoparticles make them ideal candidates for the processing of polymer nanocomposites. With a Young's modulus in the range 100–130 GPa and a surface area of several hundred m2 g−1, new promising properties can be considered for cellulose.