Although the removal of lignin and heteropolysaccharides by chemical treatment of lignocellulosics had proven to yield more flexible fibres, the presence of residual lignin in raw materials for the production of nanofibrillated cellulose (CNF) might hold several advantages such as higher yields with reduced costs (lower energy consumption in manufacture process) and potential improvement in materials performance. Also, in composite applications, chemical similarity between lignin and hydrophobic polymeric matrices might be beneficial in terms of compatibilization, thus enhancing thermo-mechanical response of the materials. Nanopapers and films of lignin-containing cellulose nanofibrils of different sources (softwood and hardwood) and processing methods (SO2-ethanol-water, kraft) were produced and their properties thoroughly studied. An overview of the positive impact of residual lignin on the properties of nanopapers will be discussed in terms of processing times and properties (morphology, surface, thermo-mechanical, etc.). Lignin-containing cellulose nanofibrils show unique properties, which open new application possibilities such as packaging, composites and high strength materials, increasing the variety of forest-based raw materials in a sustainable manner.

Comprehensive study on lignin-containing nanocellulose and their effect on properties of the materials made thereof

251st National Meeting (2016)

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