Recently we determined that it was possible to stabilise kraft pulp cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) using a non-dissolving ionic liquid, during water evaporation. This allowed for highly efficient surface acetylation (as a model reaction). However, some questions exist as to the role of hemicellulose in potentially stabilising the crystalline cellulosic portions against ‘reactive dissolution’ in the non-dissolving ionic liquid media, or even extraction of cellulose acetate from the surface of the material. These issues will be concluded and the results presented. The aim will be to develop a better understanding on how ionic liquids surface stabilise cellulose under reactive conditions. The extension of this method to dissolving pulp CNF and CNCs will also be presented, including the inclusion of more novel functionality.

From polymer to surface stabilisation of cellulose in ionic liquids

255th National Meeting (2018)

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