Functionalized celluloses and their nanoparticles: morphology, thermal properties, and solubility studies

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Biomass Utilization

Background:

• Cellulose, a renewable biopolymer, is abundant in agricultural residues.
• Functionalization of cellulose can enhance its properties and expand applications.
• Developing novel cellulose-based materials from waste is crucial for sustainability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize carboxy functionalized cellulosic nanoparticles and macro-sized cellulose derivatives.
• To investigate the influence of reaction conditions on nanoparticle properties.
• To evaluate the thermal stability and solubility of the synthesized carboxycelluloses.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of carboxy functionalized cellulose from agricultural residues.
• Characterization using techniques like TGA/DTG (Thermogravimetric Analysis/Derivative Thermogravimetry).
• Analysis of carboxyl content, particle size, shape, and solubility.

Main Results:

• Successfully synthesized quasi-spherical cellulosic nanoparticles (13.2-21.5% carboxyl content) and long-fibril macro-sized 6-carboxycelluloses (1.7-22% carboxyl content).
• Controlled reaction temperature and time to manipulate degree of polymerization (DP) and yield (up to 46%) of nanoparticles.
• Thermal stability correlated with residual crystalline, amorphous, and anhydroglucuronic acid content; particle shape/size had no impact.
• Some derivatives exhibited solubility in aqueous alkali and non-aqueous solvents.

Conclusions:

• Carboxy functionalization of cellulose from agricultural residues yields versatile materials.
• Reaction parameters offer control over nanoparticle characteristics.
• The synthesized carboxycelluloses demonstrate good thermal stability and tunable solubility, indicating potential for diverse applications.