Study of the effect of lignin to a nanocellulose film

Abstract

Cellulose is the most common material in nature, that is mostly used in the production of paper. Studies with this product have developed a series of sub products that have interesting properties in a variety of applications. One of these materials, obtained by chemical or mechanical processes is crystalline nanocellulose, or CNC. CNC, since it is a derivative of cellulose, holds most of its organic properties, but also allows a lot of flexibility in how it is processed. If it is disposed in thin layers and left to dry out for a period of time, it generates a thin film. This material resembles a plastic film, with the added factor of being slightly iridescent to light. Since this product has very similar properties to cellulose, adding a variety of other materials could affect its properties and allow for the creation of a film alternative. The greatest advantage of using such a product is the fact that it decomposes rapidly and doesn’t use petroleum in its production. Lignin is another sub product of the paper production industry, since this material gives paper a yellow shade that is usually not desired. Paper production plants use the lignin extracted in the pulping process to generate power by burning it down, but this material holds a very interesting property for making a film substitute. By mixing nanocellulose and lignin, it is possible to generate a film with different properties. This study intends to analyze these properties and evaluate if they could allow for this product to be an alternative to petroleum-based films. Other additives, besides lignin will also be used to allow for better sample testing, properties, or simply to allow lignin to fully dissolve in CNC. Studies in this subject, and specifically in the use of CNC have been a growing trend in an attempt to reduce the manufacturing of petroleum-based materials. Throughout this study, physical, barrier and optical properties will be evaluated in relation to the concentration of lignin and other additives used in the production of films.