Optimization of kneading parameters for lignocellulose fibrillation

Lignocellulose with micro- and/or nanoscale size is a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based polymers. This study proposes a simple, high-consistency alkali kneading approach for producing lignin-rich fibrillated fibers from organosolv pulp. The effects of kneading process parameters, including pulping time, pulp kneading concentration (PKC), and pulp volume concentration (PVC), on the fibrillation and/or micronization of organosolv pulping-based lignocellulose were evaluated. A 120 min pulping time was suitable for producing micronized fibers via the alkali kneading process. Using a PKC of 15% and a PVC of 44% most effectively induced the fibrillation of the fibers and improved their water retention values and mechanical properties. The results indicate that alkali kneading provides an energy-efficient route for producing micronized fibers suitable as a precursor for lignin-rich nanofibrillated cellulose.