UV-absorbing cellulose nanocrystals as functional reinforcing fillers in polymer nanocomposite films

Abstract

Reinforcing, surface-functionalized cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) with photoactive groups were obtained from wood cellulose fibers using sequential periodate oxidation and a “click-type” reaction between aldehyde groups and<italic>p</italic>-aminobenzoic acid in an aqueous environment, followed by mechanical disintegration.