This contribution summarizes our recent experience with cellulosic nanofibrils, in their unmodified and modified (TEMPO-oxidized, etc.) forms, combined or not with secondary polymers, as far as the role of water in surface and bulk interactions. The combination of quartz crystal microgravimetry, surface plasmon resonance and other tools allowed us to partially elucidate the interfacial behavior of water in the vicinity of cellulose surfaces and the role of “water expulsion”, especially in the presence of strong polycations. The gained understanding of related phenomena as applicable to 2-D cellulose films is being translated to 3D systems. In the present case in the form of filaments obtained by wet spinning of aqueous hydrogels consisting mainly of cellulose. This is of current interest to the Finish bioeconomy and efforts in the framework of the TEKES-funded project “Design Driven Value Chains in the World of Cellulose”, which deals, among others, with the exploitation of the uniqueness of wood cellulose in different types of products, from technical textiles to clothing. The creation of novel concepts and business based on cellulose as new material platform will likely succeed if clear benefits and competitiveness are demonstrated; in turn, these will depend on our ability to measure and control cellulose-water interactions.

Nanocellulose-water interactions: From flat films to filaments from wet spinning

251st National Meeting (2016)

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