Method for production of cellulose nanocrystals from miscanthus giganteus and composites therefrom

Abstract

Methods for isolating cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) from the plant Miscanthus Giganteus (MxG). Impressive yields are obtained through a combination of processing steps including base hydrolysis, bleaching and acid hydrolysis. MxG-CNCs are produced having high aspect ratios, are biorenewable and can be used for a wide range of applications such as nanofillers in composites. MxG-CNC-containing composites are also disclosed.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A composite composition, comprising:
 a matrix material; and cellulose nanocrystals from  Miscanthus Giganteus,      wherein the matrix material comprises one or more polymers or copolymers,   wherein the polymers or copolymers comprise an alkylene oxide (co)polymer, a vinyl aromatic (co)polymer, a polyolefin (co)polymer, a diene (co)polymer, a polyacrylate (co)polymer, poly(vinyl acetate), poly(vinyl alcohol), a polyamide, a polyurethane, a polyester, or a combination thereof, and   wherein the cellulose nanocrystals from  Miscanthus Giganteus  are present in an amount of 1 to 20 parts based on 100 parts by weight of the matrix material.   
     
     
         2 . The composite composition according to  claim 1 , wherein the cellulose nanocrystals from  Miscanthus Giganteus  have carboxyl functionality. 
     
     
         3 . A paper, plastic, rubber, paint, coating, adhesive or sealant comprising the composition according to  claim 2 . 
     
     
         4 . A paper, plastic, rubber, paint, coating, adhesive or sealant comprising the composition according to  claim 2 ,