Blocks
Particle size and aspect ratio reduce the permeability of films and materials.
Example: CelluForce NCC®, when added as a layer in poly lactic acid films, greatly improves gas barrier properties*.
*Référence: Chowdhury, R. A., Clarkson, C., & Youngblood, J. P. (2018, 06). 2018 TAPPI International Conference on Nanotechnology for Renewable Materials. Roll-to-roll Fabrication of Transparent Cellulose Nanocrystal (CNC) Coatings with Controlled Anisotropy, 12. Madison, Wisconsin, USA: TAPPI NANO DIVISION.
Emulsifies
Charges on the crystals allow the formation of Pickering emulsions to stabilize colloidal suspensions.
Example: CelluForce NCC® can be added as a solid surfactant to stabilize oil-in-water or water-in-oil suspensions*.
*Reference: Miao C, Tayebi M, Hamad, WY. 2018 Investigation of the formation mechanisms in high internal phase Pickering emulsions stabilized by cellulose nanocrystals. Phil. Trans. R. Soc. A 376: 20170039. .
Lubricates
The alignment of crystals reduces the coefficient of friction and surface wear.
Example: CelluForce NCC® can be added to water to improve mechanical seal performance*.
*Reference: Shariatzadeh, M. J., & Grecov, D. (2018). Cellulose Nanocrystals Suspensions as Water-Based Lubricants for Slurry Pump Gland Seals. International Journal of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, Vol:12, No:6.
Suspends
Liquid crystal structure allows stable suspensions of particles.
Example: CelluForce NCC® can be used in electric displays to suspend conductive elements.*
*Reference: CelluForce data
Strengthens
High particle crystallinity imparts strength and hardness.
Example: CelluForce NCC® can be added to rubber latex to improve mechanical properties of rubber products.*
* Reference: Mekonnen, T., & Ah-Leung, T. (2018). Study of Cellulose NanoCrystals Reinforced Formulated Natural Rubber Composites. University of Waterloo, Department of Chemical Engineering. Montréal, QC: Celluforce.
Thickens
Crystal aspect ratio and surface charges create unique viscosity and shear thinning properties.
Example: CelluForce NCC® can be added to oil and gas fluids to maintain viscosity in higher operating temperature ranges*.
*Reference: CelluForce data
Can be functionalized
CelluForce NCC® can be tuned to perform other functions through hydroxyl and sulfate groups.