Abstract

AbstractAggregation and gelation of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) induced by sodium chloride (NaCl) were investigated as a function of NaCl and CNC concentrations. Incorporation of NaCl improved CNCs ability to form clusters via screening surface charges of CNCs. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images revealed the formation of porous CNC clusters following NaCl addition. The confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) micrographs indicated the presence of regions with colloid‐rich and colloid‐poor patterns in CNC clusters. Fluorescent brightener 28 was found to have a strong hydrogen bonding to the cellulose surface and used as the staining agent in CLSM. The CLSM images also indicated a dynamic structure for gels, continually rearranging over the course of time. Zeta potential data coupled with CLSM images confirmed the impact of NaCl on the gel formation of CNCs.

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