Cellulose nanocrystals chemical modification

Excluding the use of an aqueous polymer dispersion, or latex, an alternative way to process nonpolar polymer nanocomposites reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals consists of their dispersion in an adequate (with regard to matrix) organic medium. Coating with a surfactant or a surface chemical modification of the nanoparticles can be considered. The global objective is to reduce their surface energy in order to improve their dispersibUity/compatibility with nonpolar media. 

Dufresne et al. [153] noted that surface adsorption of potyojq ethylene chains on the surface nanocrystals can improve dispersibility and thermal stability of nanocrystals during the melt processing of polyethylene based nanocomposites. The chemical modification of cellulose is a most effective approach to avoid irreversible agglomeration during drying, and enhance the adhesion between nanocellulose and nonpolar matrices [132]. Dufresne et al. [98] showed also, that chemical and physical compatibilization imparted by poly(ethylene glycol) and polyoxyethylene layers promoted the interfacial interaction between cellulosic nanoparticles and polystyrene. 

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