FUNCTIONALIZED CELLULOSE NANOCRYSTALS, A METHOD FOR THE PREPARATION THEREOF AND USE OF FUNCTIONALIZED CELLULOSE NANOCRYSTALS IN COMPOSITES AND FOR GRAFTING

摘要

The present invention relates to a cellulose nanocrystal functionalized with a group R, a method for preparation of cellulose nanocrystals that are functionalized with one or more groups R and use of functionalized cellulose nanocrystals in composites and for grafting. The aim of the invention is to offer more rapid and simplified methods to generate functional CNC with high degree of reactive groups on the surface. Furthermore, there is a need for functional CNCs with groups on the surface that can be used in composite materials and where the reactive group can work as coupling agents, initiators for polymer grafting or as crosslinkers. This is achieved by a method for preparation of cellulose nanocrystals that are functionalized with one or more groups R, wherein the method comprises the steps of: a) providing cellulose; b) treating the cellulose with an acidic water solution; c) removing the acidic water solution; d) adding a solution comprising an organic acid; e) reacting the mixture obtained in step d).