While the traditional method for preparing cellulose nanowhiskers has relied on the action of concentrated acids, we are presenting here a new chemical route, which allows preparing CNWs in relatively high yields while minimizing the need for strong acid reagent.  In this paper we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this new chemical route based on measurements of reaction yield, as well as the morphology, size distributions, surface chemistry and thermal properties of the resulting cellulose nanowhiskers.  Of particular interest, the acid to anhydroglucose molar ratios used in this new reaction route is significantly lower than that used in the traditional route with concentrated acid. We propose that the improved efficacy of the preparation of CNW relies on a two-stage mechanism, in contrast to that with the traditional route.  Based on these results, the new preparation route appears to be an environmentally friendly alternative of choice to the traditional preparation route of cellulose nanowhiskers.

Novel preparation route for cellulose nanowhiskers

245th National Meeting (2013)

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