Cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) facilitates the production of biomaterials with specific structures. These materials range from nanofilaments and thin films to complex 3D structures, such as aerogels, with tunable pore structures. CNF based materials combine the valuable properties of native cellulose with tunable structuring to create high-performance biomaterials characterized by high stiffness, strength and biocompability, and form suitable substrates for surface functionalization. Through adsorption of polyelectrolytes on the charged CNF using the layer-by-layer methodology it is possible to easily functionalize and tune the properties of the materials. Adsorption of highly charged polyvinylamine and polyacrylic acid onto cellulose pulp fibers has earlier been shown to create antibacterial properties (Illergård, J.; et al. Cellulose 2012, 19, 1731-1741). This technique was adapted from modification of macroscopic fibers to modification of microscopic surfaces such as CNF aerogels. By using this modification, we can create aerogels with different pore structures that exhibit contact-active antibacterial properties. The advantage of using contact-active antibacterial materials is the avoidance of traditionally used leaching compounds, such as silver ions or triclosan, which are known to be environmentally problematic and thought to be related to antibiotic resistance. The modified structures are capable of &gt;99 % bacteria reduction from solutions, while still maintaining many of the advantageous properties such as rapid water absorption and a high specific surface area.

Antibacterial aerogels from cellulose nanofibrils

251st National Meeting (2016)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.