Cellulose nanomaterials have gained a lot of notice recently owing to their impressive mechanical and thermal properties, environmental benefit, low toxicity and relative low cost. Of these cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are semi-commercial and have been used in nanocomposites for a variety of applications. However, CNCs are quite hydrophilic due to the highly hydroxylated and sulfate ester CNC surface and so do not disperse well in hydrophobic resins. Here, we detail our own efforts at preparing CNC nanocomposites and focus on the role of surface chemistry in the behavior by investigating the interplay between chemical modification and properties.

Cellulose nanocomposites and the role of surface chemistry

251st National Meeting (2016)

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