We have obtained 3D tomography of cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) aerogels by using atomic layer deposition to coat the CNCs with Al2O3. Knowing the spatial distribution and connection types between CNCs in the aerogels, and relating the TEM density to the bulk density, we are in a position to use simple compression tests of uncoated CNC aerogels (and several assumptions!) to extract from the data an estimate of the forces between CNCs in the aerogel structure. This first quantitative evaluation of CNC-CNC contact bonding forces is intended to inform the discussion on the importance of percolation in CNC nanocomposites. We also will present data on the strength of the bonding as a function of relative humidity, and thus learn about the effect of moisture on CNC-CNC interactions.

Cellulose-cellulose bonding in CNC aerogels

251st National Meeting (2016)

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