Chemically Derivatized Nanocellulose Production via Microfluidic Shear
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for producing chemically modified nanocellulose are complex and limited to small-scale laboratory processes, making it economically challenging to produce large quantities efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the simultaneous application of high shear conditions and chemical derivatization of a precursor cellulosic material, such as wood pulp, using a chemically derivatizing composition within a microfluidic device to produce chemically derivatized nanocellulose in a continuous process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional laboratory-scale methods are used for chemical modification of nanocellulose, then high manufacturing precision and product quality can be achieved, but productivity is low and production costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical delamination and chemical derivatization into a single integrated process step. The chemically derivatizing composition is applied to the precursor cellulosic material simultaneously with the high shear forces that break down the material into nanocellulose, eliminating the need for separate sequential operations and enabling continuous production while maintaining product quality
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements a continuous production process where the precursor cellulosic material is continuously contacted with the chemically derivatizing composition and subjected to high shear conditions in a microfluidic device. This continuous operation allows for large-scale production while maintaining consistent degree of substitution and nanofibril width distribution throughout the process
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate sequential processes are used for mechanical delamination and chemical derivatization, then process flexibility is maintained, but device complexity and production time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two previously separate process steps—mechanical delamination and chemical derivatization—into a single integrated operation. The chemically derivatizing composition is applied to the precursor material while it is simultaneously subjected to high shear forces in the microfluidic device, reducing the number of process steps and equipment requirements while maintaining process flexibility
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach simplifies the production of chemically derivatized nanocellulose, allowing for larger-scale production while maintaining a superior degree of substitution and homogenous nanofibril width distribution, compared to traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
subjecting the formed liquid reaction mixture to high shear conditions, and most preferably to microfluidisation
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a method for the production of chemically derivatized nanocellulose, comprising the step of a. contacting a precursor cellulosic material with a chemically derivatizing composition to form a liquid reaction mixture, and b. chemically reacting the formed liquid reaction mixture, and c. subjecting the formed liquid reaction mixture to microfluidisation, wherein the steps b. and c. are carried out simultaneously.