Nanocellulose is a naturally sourced, carbon-based nanomaterial with a unique combination of beneficial properties that make it an attractive, environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic carbon-based nanomaterials (e.g. carbon nanotubes) as an additive in a range of potential commercial applications, such as packaging, paper and board, composites, and flexible electronics. In a number of these applications, it is desirable to modify the surface of nanocellulose to tailor its interfacial properties. However, the effect of different surface modification strategies on the environmental impact of nanocellulose is unclear. In this presentation I will compare and contrast how different nanocellulose surface modification strategies (including silanization and direct covalent modification of the C6 hydroxyl groups) alter properties relevant to its applications in materials (e.g. dispersion in organic solvents and polymer composites) as well as environmentally relevant properties (e.g. biodegradability and persistence). Our results demonstrate the need to balance the benefits of surface modification with the often unintended negative impact they can exert on its environmental behavior.

Surface modification of nanocellulose; balancing enhanced materials properties with environmental impacts

256th National Meeting (2018)

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