Cationic nanofibrillar cellulose with high antibacterial properties

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Cellulose nanofibrils (NFC) are promising nanomaterials.
• Cationic modification enhances NFC properties.
• Quaternization of cellulose is a key modification step.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare cationic nanofibrillar cellulose (C-NFC) using glycidyltrimethylammonium chloride.
• To investigate the impact of quaternization on fibrillation and C-NFC properties.
• To evaluate the reinforcing and antibacterial potential of C-NFC.

Main Methods:

• High-pressure homogenization for C-NFC preparation.
• Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) for nanofibril characterization.
• Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) for mechanical properties.
• Investigation of rheological and electrokinetic properties.

Main Results:

• Successful preparation of C-NFC with individualized nanofibrils (4-5nm width).
• Quaternization facilitated defibrillation and prevented homogenizer clogging.
• C-NFC demonstrated significant reinforcing potential and enhanced antibacterial activity in polymer matrices.
• Comparison with anionic NFC highlighted differences in network formation due to hydrogen bonding.

Conclusions:

• C-NFC can be efficiently prepared using quaternized cellulose fibers.
• C-NFC exhibits excellent reinforcing capabilities and antibacterial efficacy.
• The study provides insights into C-NFC's network formation and performance compared to anionic NFC.