Cellulose Nanocrystals
CAS Number: 9004-34-6
Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) are rigid, rod-shaped nanoparticles derived from acid hydrolysis of highly purified cellulose sources such as wood pulp or cotton. With high aspect ratios, exceptional tensile modulus, and a renewable bio-based origin, CNCs serve as an effective reinforcing nanofiller in composites, coatings, and hydrogels. They impart outstanding mechanical reinforcement and barrier properties at very low loadings due to their large surface area and ability to form percolating networks.
Technical Specifications
| purity | ≥95% cellulose |
| diameter | 5–15 nm |
| appearance | White powder or aqueous suspension |
| crystal length | 100–300 nm |
Applications
- Nanocomposite polymer films with enhanced barrier properties
- Reinforcing agent in hydrogels and bio-based packaging
- Rheology modifier in waterborne coatings
- Transparent flexible electronics substrates
- Biomedical scaffolds and drug delivery matrices
Key Features
- Renewable and biodegradable with a bio-based carbon content approaching 100%
- High tensile modulus (~150 GPa) rivaling Kevlar for composite reinforcement
- Self-assembles into liquid crystalline phases enabling iridescent functional films
- Available as freeze-dried powder or aqueous suspension for easy processing