Potential Differences between Cellulose Nanocrystal, Microfibrillated Cellulose, and Hairy Cellulose Nanocrystalloid in Water Purification

Abstract

Cellulose is a bio-based polymer synthesized through natural sources, including plants and microorganisms. Cellulose has been converted into nanocellulose to enhance its physical and chemical properties. At the nanoscale level, the diameter of cellulose lies in nanometers with high crystallinity, high surface area, high tensile strength, a high degree of polymerization, and water stability, which increases the application of nanocellulose in different regions. Nanocellulose becomes an active candidate for water filtration. Nanocellulose is considered as biosorbent because of the widespread possibility of surface modification. A variety of pollutants, including heavy metal ions, organic pollutants, dyes, and oils, are absorbed by nanocellulose to improve water quality. The biodegradability and renewal of nanocellulose-based adsorbents and membranes is an additional benefit driving effort to meet the use of this new class of bio-based nanomaterials. This chapter begins with introducing cellulose and then delves into the various properties of nanocellulose and the potential differences between cellulose nanocrystal, microfibrillated cellulose, and hairy cellulose nanocrystalloid in water purification.