15.1 Micromechanics Modeling of Pulp Fibers and Validation with Single Fiber Tensile Experiments
Climate change concerns have spurred research into natural fiber composites (NFCs), which offer advantages over synthetic ones, such as lower environmental impact and cost [1]. The lumber industry generates significant by-products, often thermally processed, leading to CO2 emissions. Utilizing these by-products can reduce the environmental impact and increase the economic value of wood processing. Their […]
9.4 Three-dimensional nanoscale reconstruction of fibril organization in plant cell walls
Native composite materials such as wood, exhibit complex fiber arrangements to enhance strength, flexibility, and functionality. This work presents a new method enabling three-dimensional (3D) characterization of crystalline fibril organization at the nanoscale using Scanning Electron Diffraction (SED), enabling analysis of beam-sensitive materials.SED utilizes a nanoscale electron beam, rapidly scanning the specimen while synchronously capturing […]
8.4 Active cellulose fiber foam with water vapor buffer capacity: towards new strategies for humidity control systems in packaging
Cellulose fiber foams have attracted significant interest in recent years as a sustainable alternative to fossil-based foams for cushioning applications in packaging. Their highly porous structure, composed of hydrophilic cellulose fibers, enables moisture absorption, making them promising for moisture-control active packaging when combined with adsorbing compounds. This study analyzes active cellulose fiber foams containing calcium […]
6.4 Microbial Technologies for Bioremediation of Precipitation Sludge from Cardboard Production
Precipitation sludge (PS) generated from cardboard production contains high metals (Al, Fe, Ca, Si) and organic components (starch, cellulose, xylan, and lignin). With high moisture and a mixture of organic and inorganic components, PS cannot be recycled and combusted for energy recovery, resulting in zero value and landfill disposal. This creates both environmental and economic […]
7.11 Physicochemical properties of cellulose nanocrystal-reinforced hydroxypropyl cellulose hydrogels
This study investigates the physicochemical properties of cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) -reinforced hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) hydrogels. HPC is a cellulose-derived, thermo-responsive polymer that forms physically cross-linked hydrogels near body temperature, while CNCs are rigid, rod-like nanocellulose particles that serve as effective mechanical reinforcements. The viscoelastic properties of the hydrogels as a function of temperature were characterized […]
2.12 Advancing Sustainable Metal Protection: Bio-Based Coatings from Fractionated Kraft Lignin
The degradation of metal surfaces due to corrosion and fouling presents significant challenges in industrial and marine environments, leading to increased maintenance costs and material failures. Traditional protective coatings often rely on synthetic polymers and toxic additives, raising environmental concerns and facing increasing regulatory constraints. In this study, kraft lignin—an abundant byproduct of the pulp […]
14.3 Deciphering the Mechanistic Roles of Inter- and Intramolecular Hydrogen Bonds in the Mechanical Properties of Plant Cellulose
Cellulose, as the primary structural component of plant cell walls, plays a crucial role in maintaining plant morphology and supporting growth processes. It is recognized as the natural polymer material with the highest modulus in nature. Owing to its renewability, multi-scale structural hierarchy, and exceptional mechanical properties, cellulose has become a widely utilized natural material. […]