The existence of high number of free hydroxyl groups on nanocellulose fibers contributes to a high surface energy. Although the nanocellulose fibers have a great potential due to their high surface energy, the difficulty of using them with hydrophobic matrixes in composites is one of the main challenges. The objective is to reduce the surface energy of nanocellulose fibers in order to make them compatible with hydrophobic matrixes and with uniform dispersion in the composites. In results, modified nanocellulose fibers will be able to improve the mechanical properties of nanocellulose composites. Petroleum-based polymers have been used to change the surface energy of nanocellulose fibers from hydrophilic to more hydrophobic. Last seven years of our research revealed that surface energy of nanocellulose fibers can be designed through targeted bio-chemical reactions of hydrophobic bio-precursors. Understanding surface energy of nanocellulose fibers is important for determining the effect of coated biopolymer and for determining the compatibility of the nanocellulose with various polymer matrixes to ensure optimal matrix-fiber interaction.<br/> <br/>The use of the bio-based coating, paints and varnishes for natural substrates demonstrated promising application in food packaging materials, building and automotive products. Presentation will give examples of demonstrated applications of nanocellulose with designed surface properties.<br/>

Understanding surface energy of nanocellulose for nano-enabled bioproduct

251st National Meeting (2016)

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