Cellulose Nanoparticles Research Articles

Branched versus linear lactide chains for cellulose nanoparticle modification: an atomistic molecular dynamics study.

We studied the structure of brushes consisting of branched oligolactide (OLA) chains grafted onto the surface of cellulose nanoparticles (CNPs) in polylactide (PLA) and compared the outcomes to the case of grafting linear OLA chains using atomistic molecular dynamics simulations. The systems were considered in a melt state. The branched model OLA chains comprised one branching point and three branches, while the linear OLA chains examined had a molecular weight similar to the branched chains. It was shown that free branches of the branched OLA chains tend to fold back toward the CNPs due to dipole-dipole interactions within the grafted layer, in contrast to the well-established behavior of the grafted uncharged branched chains. This result, however, is in qualitative agreement with the conformational behavior known for linear OLA chains. At the same time, no significant difference in the effectiveness of covering the filler surface with grafted branched or linear OLA chains was found. In terms of the expelling ability of the grafted chains and the interaction between PLA and CNP or OLA, the linear chains were broadly similar (sparse grafting) or better (intermediate or dense grafting) compared to the branched ones. Thus, the grafted lactide chains with a linear architecture, rather than their branched counterpart, may be preferable for the covalent modification of cellulose nanoparticles.

Evaluation of Cellulose Nanoparticles Synthesized by Acid Hydrolysis for Safe Applications

In the present study, cellulose nanoparticles were synthesized from waste cotton by acid hydrolysis method. Nanoparticles were obtained by the hydrolysis of pretreated cotton fibers with an acid mixture containing water, hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sulphuric acid (H2SO4). Characterization and biocompatibility studies of obtained cellulose nanoparticles were performed successfully. The morphological studies of cellulose nanoparticles were conducted by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). Both showed that the cellulose nanoparticles synthesized from waste cotton measured approximately 100 - 200nm in diameter. Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopic spectrum showed the elemental composition of the cellulose nanoparticles containing carbon and oxygen. Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy spectrum revealed the presence of several characteristic peaks of cellulose nanoparticles. Human lung epithelial (Beas-2B) cells were used to assess the cytotoxicity and biocompatibility activity of cellulose nanoparticles. Cytotoxicity of cellulose nanoparticles was determined by 3-(4,5- Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assay. Live/Dead viability assay was carried out to assess the biocompatibility of cellulose nanoparticles. Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species in Beas-2B cells incubated with cellulose nanoparticles was determined by Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) assay. MTT and Live/Dead assays showed no significant induction of cell death even at higher concentrations (100 μg) upon exposure to Beas- 2B cells. ROS assay revealed that cellulose nanoparticles did not induce any reactive oxygen species that contribute to the oxidative stress and inflammation leading to various disease conditions. The results revealed that the cellulose nanoparticles have a great potential in a variety of commercial applications

Biodegradable nanoparticles from prosopisylated cellulose as a platform for enhanced oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs

Bio-inspired nanotechnology-based strategies are potential platforms for enhanced dissolution and oral biovailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. In this study, a recently patented green biopolymer (Prosopis africana gum, PG) was compatibilized with microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), a conventional polysaccharide, via thermo-regulated coacervation to obtain PG-MCC (1:0, 1:1, 1:2, 2:1, and 0:1) rational blends and the nanoparticles developed with optimized (1:1) biocomposites (termed “prosopisylated cellulose”) by combined homogenization-nanoprecipitation technique was engineered as a high circulating system for improved oral bioavailability of griseofulvin (GF), a model Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) Class-II drug. The effects of biopolymer interaction on morphological and microstructural properties of drug-free biocomposites obtained were investigated by Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffractometry, while the physicochemical properties and in-vivo pharmacokinetics of GF-loaded nanoparticles were also ascertained. Optimized biocomposites revealed inter-molecular and intra-molecular hydrogen bonding between the hydroxyl group of MCC and polar components of PG, as well as reduction in crystallinity of MCC. Griseofulvin-loaded nanoparticles were stable, displayed particles with relatively smooth surfaces and average size of 26.18 ± 0.94 . nm, with zeta potential and polydispersity index of 32.1 ± 0.57 mV and 0.173 ± 0.06, respectively. Additionally, the nanoparticles showed good entrapment efficiency (86.51 ± 0.93 %), and marked improvement in griseofulvin dissolution when compared to free drug, with significantly (p < 0.05) higher GF release in basic than acidic PEG-reinforced simulated bio-microenvironments. Besides, x-ray diffractogram of GF-loaded nanoparticles showed amorphization with few characteristic peaks of GF while infra-red spectrum indicated broader principal peaks of GF and components compatibility. Furthermore, GF-loaded nanoparticles showed low plasma clearance with three-fold increase in systemic bioavailability of griseofulvin compared with free drug. These results showed that prosopisylated cellulose nanoparticles would be a facile approach to improve oral bioavailability of BCS class-II drugs and can be pursued as a new versatile drug delivery platform.

Effect of nanocellulose on mechanical and barrier properties of PVA–banana pseudostem fiber composite films

PVA–Banana pseudostem fiber lignocellulosic composite films were prepared by solution casting method and reinforced with increasing amount of nanocellulose filler for enhancement of mechanical and barrier properties. The nanocellulose filler was derived from microcrystalline cellulose via a green synthesis route avoiding use of concentrated acid in conventional process. Composite films showed remarkable improvement in mechanical properties like tensile strength and elongation at break. Water barrier properties were also improved as evident by the reduction in swelling percentage and water vapour permeability. Film transparency was somewhat reduced due to the cross linking formed by the nanocellulose particles. Overall a maximum improvement of 14.3% was observed in tensile strength of films reinforced with 3 wt% nanocellulose while the elongation at break reduced by 9.1% percent for the same. Water vapour permeability improved by 29.7%, the decrease being inversely proportional to amount of nanocellulose added. Water swelling test showed promising results as weight gain by the film was limited to only 16.8% after immersion in water for 24 h as compared to 67.4% weight gain by the PVA–lignocellulosic composite films containing no nanocellulose. Our results show that nanocellulose addition to PVA–banana pseudostem fiber composite films significantly improve their mechanical and water barrier properties making them a suitable alternative to plastic packaging films. • Nanocellulose prepared from microcrystalline cellulose via green synthesis. • Green composite packaging films from PVA and lignocellulosic fiber of banana pseudostem (BPF) prepared. • Effect of nanocellulose on PVA–Banana pseudostem fiber (BPF) composite film. • Effect of nanocellulose on mechanical properties and water barrier properties is discussed. • Nanocellulose enhances tensile strength and water barrier property of PVA–BPF composite films.

Extraction and characterization of nanocellulose from three types of palm residues

Carbon footprint and nonrenewability are among the motives to mitigate dependence on oil resources. On the other hand, palm trees exceeded 100 million around globe, which poses enormous amount of biowastes to get exploited per annum. Moreover, nanocellulose is emerging as efficient low cost material, which shows increasing versatility throughout time. In this investigation we will attempt to extract nanocellulose from palm wastes (fronds, leaves, and coir), and characterize them. Dry biomass was pulped by being subjected to 10% (wt/wt) NaOH alkaline treatment at 160 °C for 2 h. Pulped non-bleached biomass underwent acidic hydrolysis by mechanical stirring in 20% H2SO4 (v/v) and heating to 120 °C for 30 min. After filtration, neutralization, and centrifugion, resultant particles were characterized to assess their morphology, size, particle charge, existing chemical groups, and crystallinity. For the three types of palm residues, our preparation technique was successful to isolate lignin containing nanocellulose particles. However, coir was more recalcitrant to acidic hydrolysis than fronds and leaves. Our palm residues yielded 42–82 nm spherical particles, and zeta potential ranging between −11 and −19 mV. Crystallinity was higher after pulping, and lower after hydrolysis, which suggests promotion of amorphous content of cellulose. Lignin-containing nanocellulose prepared in this study initiates promising horizon especially in heavy metal (cations) removal from water in environmental applications and sustained drug delivery for medical applications.

Graphene oxide decorated with cellulose and copper nanoparticle as an efficient adsorbent for the removal of malachite green

In this study, the graphene oxide surface was modified by grafting of nanocellulose and copper nanoparticles to promote the surface charge and adsorption efficiency for malachite green (MG). The structural and configurational properties of GO-CEL-Cu were verified by UV/Vis, SEM, TEM, EDX and FTIR spectroscopy and confirmed the electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bonding between GO, CEL and Cu-NPs. TEM images confirmed the deposition of Cu-NPs size between 24 and 37 nm on the GO surface. The uniform fine particles size makes strong interfacial interaction with GO sheets result in efficient load transfer from the matrix to the hybrid. The variable parameters such as adsorbent amount, MG concentration, pH, time and temperature were investigated to achieve optimum experimental condition. The experimental data was justified by Langmuir isotherm model with adsorption capacity for GO, GO-Cu, GO-CEL, GO-CEL-Cu as 127.3, 149.2, 156.8 and 207.1 mg/g, respectively. The spontaneity and endothermic nature of the process were confirmed by negative Gibbs free energy and followed the pseudo-second-order rate equation. Additionally, positive values of enthalpy and entropy suggesting endothermic process and increase randomness during process, respectively. In conclusion, nanocomposite is capable to adsorb the toxic dye due to its well economic, eco-friendly, well adsorption rate and regeneration ability.

Sulfonated Cellulose-Based Magnetic Composite as Useful Media for Water Remediation from Amine Pollutants

Commercially available microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was functionalized using chlorosulfonic acid, while iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) were adsorbed on the surface of the cellulose derivative by the Massart’s co-precipitation method. The obtained magnetite-decorated sulfate cellulose nanoparticles (MDSCNs) were characterized via Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning-electron microscopy (SEM), and elemental analysis, while the acidity of the functionalized cellulose was determined using an acid–base titration with phenolphthalein as an indicator. Furthermore, in order to determine the adsorptive power of the obtained composite, a series of analyses were performed on aqueous amine pollutants using flame ionization detection gas chromatography (GC-FID). The results of this study clearly show how a bio-compatible green polymer as cellulose can be easy functionalized in order to improve its chemical and physical properties, obtaining a magnetic composite useful in water purification. Adsorption percentages up to 90% and a very small amount of composite used (100 mg) proved how our material can be a powerful tool in environmental remediation.

Affinity Immobilization of Semiconductor Quantum Dots and Metal Nanoparticles on Cellulose Paper Substrates.

Colloidal semiconductor quantum dots (QDs), metal nanoparticles, and cellulose paper are materials with numerous applications in bioanalysis and beyond. The functional properties of QDs and metal NPs are substantially different than those of cellulose, such that their integration with cellulose paper is potentially enabling for many applications. Here, we characterize and evaluate multiple chemistries that modify cellulose paper substrates for the affinity-based immobilization of QDs, gold nanoparticles (Au NPs), and platinum nanoparticles (Pt NPs). These chemistries include grafting of cellulose fibers with imidazole and dithiol groups, as well as the aminosilanization of cellulose fibers (both with and without subsequent grafting with dithiol groups). Cellulose modifications and nanoparticle immobilization are characterized by multiple techniques, including, but not limited to, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and optical imaging, extinction, and fluorescence measurements. We demonstrate the on-paper immobilization of color-tuned mixtures of QDs, on-paper patterning of QDs by microcontact printing, and post-immobilization enhancement of energy transfer and model assays of protease activity. The robustness of QD photoluminescence is also evaluated between immobilization chemistries. Paper-immobilized Au NPs and Pt NPs are evaluated as potential substrates for SERS and as supported catalysts for a model decolorization reaction. Our cumulative results indicate that there may not be a one-size-fits-all immobilization chemistry. Instead, the immobilization chemistry should be tailored and optimized for the downstream application.

Effect of ball milling on cellulose nanoparticles structure obtained from garlic and agave waste

The aim of this study was to obtain cellulose and cellulose nanoparticles (CNP) from garlic and agave wastes, as well as elucidating its structure at different scales using microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. Cellulose is isolated by using a sequential extractive process and monitored by CLSM and SEM, while CNP are produced in a high-energy planetary mill. FTIR and XRD confirmed the presence of cellulose type I and CI and Dhkl was used to evaluate the size of CNP. The corresponding crystalline structure, d-spacing and angles obtained from crystalline regions of CNP were estimated by TEM and computational simulation. It is shown that the triclinic phase is predominant in G, and a monoclinic conformation in CNP for A. The novelty of this contribution is to demonstrate that the crystalline structure of CNP, extracted from different agro-food wastes, depends on its initial microstructural arrangement (laminar or fibrillar).

Cellulose Ester Insulation of Power Transformers: Researching the Influence of Moisture on the Phase Shift Angle and Admittance

This study investigates the frequency–temperature relations between the phase angle φ and admittance Y for composites of cellulose, synthetic ester, and water nanoparticles. We determined the activation energy value for the relaxation time of a phase shift angle ΔWφ ≈ (0.783 ± 0.0744) eV, which was related to the shift of φ(f) waveforms in higher frequency area with increasing temperature. We found that the position of admittance frequency waveforms in double logarithmic coordinates was simultaneously influenced by the temperature dependence of admittance and its relaxation time. Activation energy values for the relaxation time of admittance ΔWτ ≈ (0.796 ± 0.0139) eV and the activation energy value of admittance ∆WY ≈ (0.800 ± 0.0162) eV were determined. It was found that all three activation energy values were identical and their average was ΔW ≈ (0.793 ± 0.0453) eV. Impregnation with synthetic ester resulted in a decrease of activation energy by 0.26 eV compared to the impregnation with insulating oil. This was related to higher dielectric permittivity of the synthetic ester.

A selective and sensitive procedure for magnetic solid-phase microextraction of lead(II) on magnetic cellulose nanoparticles from environmental samples prior to its flame atomic absorption spectrometric detection

A solid-phase microextraction (SPME) procedure has been proposed for the extraction of a trace amount of lead from the environmental samples using magnetic cellulose nanoparticles (Cell-MNPs) as adsorbent material. Synthesized cell-MNPs was characterized by FTIR, SEM—EDX, XRD, and BET. Different analytical parameters were optimized such as pH, adsorbent amount, adsorption time, desorption time, eluent type, eluent volume, model solution amount, and matrix ions effects for the selective and sensitive extraction of lead (II) from the environmental samples. The limit of detection and limit of quantification were found to 8.9 and 29.7 µgL−1 for the lead (II). Cell-MNPs was successfully applied for solid-phase extraction of lead (II) from the water and tea samples.

Rod- and sphere-shaped cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) type-II derived from Asclepias syriaca stem residues: composition, morphology, and thermal properties

Cellulose nanocrystals or nanoparticles (CNCs) have drawn a lot of attention due to their abundance, biocompatibility, renewability and their excellent mechanical properties paving the way to innovative and sustainable applications. In the present work, the stem residues of Asclepias syriaca L., better known as milkweed and generally regarded as a weed, was used for the first time to extract CNCs with a crystalline structure type-II (CNC-II). Structural, thermal, morphological, and mechanical properties of extracted CNC-II were characterized by means of Fourier transform infrared, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, thermogravimetric analysis, and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Asclepias syriaca stem fibers revealed quite similar cellulose content compared with other milkweed species, and stable suspensions made of nanosphere- and nanorod-shape CNC-II were successfully extracted from raw milkweed fibers. In addition, after conversion from cellulose-I to cellulose-II by mercerization, milkweed cellulose-II exhibited higher thermal resistance compared with cellulose-I with degradation temperatures at 328 °C and 310 °C, respectively. Finally, the transversal elastic modulus of individuals CNC-II, as measured by AFM, was found to be in the range of 3.5–27 GPa, which is consistent with reported values for CNC-I or -II in the literature.

Optimizing the chitosan-cellulose based drug delivery system for controlling the ciprofloxacin release versus organic/inorganic crosslinker, characterization and kinetic study

This work was done to optimize the drug delivery system based on N-trimethyl chitosan (TMC) and carboxylate-containing cellulose derivatives, as well as assessment the effective role of organic and inorganic cross-linkers for controlling release of ciprofloxacin (CPX) drug. Organic crosslinking of oxidized cellulose nanoparticle or CMC with TMC for preparing the hydrogel and their CPX drug loading were characterized by FTIR, swelling behaviour, DSC and SEM. Parallel tests were carried out on using Cu (II) ions as inorganic cross-linker.The FTIR and DSC data confirmed the formation of crosslinked delivery systems incorporated with CPX drug and candidate the TMC-CMC as the most stable delivery system. The SEM micrographs evidence the compatibility of cross-linked delivery systems with the incorporated of CPX drug through the hydrogel matrix. In vitro drug release study showed the effectiveness of organic crosslinking of TMC with CMC and OC to control the release of CPX than TMC, individually. Sustained and controlled drug releases were observed for organic crosslinked CMC (TMC-CMC) with maximum release (~75%) exceeded the TMC-OC and inorganic crosslinked CMC (Cu (II)-CMC). The release kinetics of all examined hydrogels followed Ritger-Peppas and Higuchi models, that indicating Fickian and the release of CPX was primarily controlled by diffusion process. The cell viability of human normal fibroplast cell line (BJ1) was positively correlated with the type of cellulose derivative-hydrogels and crosslinker. The TMC-CMC was recommended as promising safety and control drug release hydrogel.

Biomass-derived cellulose nanoparticles display considerable neurotoxicity in zebrafish

The widespread use of nanomaterials poses a great threat to human living environments. Among them, biomass-derived cellulose nanoparticle (CN) is one of the widely used nanomaterials. To date, the toxicity of CNs during embryonic development remains undetermined. In this study, we exposed zebrafish embryos to cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) to evaluate the toxicity of these CNs. Exposure to CNFs or CNCs below 30 mg/ml exhibited no dose-dependent increases in malformation and mortality in zebrafish embryos. Then we demonstrated that CNs were highly enriched in zebrafish embryo via imaging analyses of embryos treated with FITC-coupled CNCs. In addition, we found that CNF or CNC exposure resulted in compromised motor ability of zebrafish larva. Furthermore, it was revealed that the differentiation and the morphogenesis of motor neurons were significantly interrupted. While, blood vessels were normally patterned, suggesting the specific neurotoxicity of these nanomaterials. Transcriptome sequencing assay showed that the neurotoxicity of CNs in the motor neurons might be attributed to the expression alteration of neural genes. In summary, we discovered the neurotoxicity of CNs for the first time.

Flexible Nanoporous Silver Membranes with Unprecedented High Effectiveness for Electromagnetic Interference Shielding

Demands for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials with small thickness, lightweight, and flexibility have been increasing to satisfy rapid advances in flexible and wearable electronics. Various EMI shielding materials have been explored and improved to meet these requirements for assist in the miniaturization of electronic devices, but is still a challenging task. In this work, we describe a simple and effective strategy for the fabrication of flexible nanoporous silver (Ag) membranes with unprecedented high effectiveness for EMI shielding. The nanoporous Ag membranes were fabricated by sequential vacuum filtration of a dispersion containing bacterial cellulose and Ag nanoparticles, which were followed by a hot-pressing process. The membrane with nanoporous Ag thickness of 1.2μm exhibits high EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) of ˜53dB (99.9%) in 0.5−18.0GHz and an unprecedented high absolute EMI SE of 85,462dB·cm2g–1, which could be attributed to the nanoporous structures leading to an increasing of multiple reflections of the electromagnetic waves. In addition, the nanoporous Ag membrane showed highly stable electro-mechanical durability and fast heat dissipation properties, enabling desired EMI shielding performance for the wide range applications.

Nanoparticle technology for separation of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin nanoparticles from lignocellulose biomass: A short review

This article addresses particle size reduction technologies currently available and their potential application in bioenergy production from waste biomass. It is believed the reduction of the particle size of biomass wastes to nano-scale will have a significant impact on the quality, quantity, and price of biofuels. Currently, these technologies have not been developed for commercial application due to lack of efficiency. They can only function on small scale operations with high energy consumption. Advancing particle size reduction technologies to produce nano-scale particles at a commercial level is an emerging need.

The possible reduction of phenol-formaldehyde resin spread rate by its nanocellulose-reinforcement in plywood manufacturing process

The possible reduction of phenol-formaldehyde resin spread rate by its nanocellulose-reinforcement in plywood manufacturing process. The aim of the study was to investigate the possibility of phenol-formaldehyde (PF) resin consumption in plywood by its reinforcement with cellulosic nanoparticles (NCC). In order to determine the possible reduction of resin spread rate bonding quality was assessed both after boiling in water for 24h and after ageing test including i.e. boiling in water. Studies have shown that the addition of nanocellulose made it possible to significantly reduce the amount of the applied adhesive. Reference samples were characterized by similar shear strength values to experimental plywood manufactured with the adhesive application of 140 g/m2. NCC-reinforcement resulted also in the increase of mechanical properties such as modulus of elasticity and bending strength. The analysis of the data confirmed the tendency observed during bonding quality evaluation and it was concluded that resin modification allowed to reduce its spread rate by 30 g/m2.

Immobilization of Purified Pectin Lyase from Acinetobacter calcoaceticus onto Magnetic Carboxymethyl Cellulose Nanoparticles and Its Usability in Food Industry

An important component of the pectinase enzyme complex is pectin lyase (polymethylgalacturonate lyase; EC 4.2.2.10). In this study, extracellular pectin lyase enzyme was produced from Acinetobacter calcoaceticus bacteria. Pectin lyase was then purified using three-phase precipitation (TPP) technique with 25.5% yield. The pectin lyase was immobilized covalently via the L-glutaraldehyde spacer to the carboxymethyl cellulose. The immobilized pectin lyase was magnetized using Fe3O4 nanoparticles. Purified pectin lyase was connected to magnetized support material after 90 min at the rate of 80%. The most appropriate immobilization conditions were determined as pH 8 and 30°C. By characterizing the free and immobilized enzyme, KM, Vmax, and optimum pH and optimum temperature values were determined. It was optimum pH 8 and temperature 50°C for both free and immobilized pectin lyase. The structural characterization of the immobilized pectin lyase modified with Fe3O4 nanoparticles was carried out by SEM, FT-IR, and XRD chromatographic analyses. At the end of the study, free and immobilized enzymes were used for purification of some fruit juices and results were compared.

Production of antihyerglycemic and antihypertensive drug loaded sustained release nanoparticles using spray drying technique: Optimization by Placket Burman Design

Repaglinide (RPG, antidiabetic) and Diltiazem HCL (DIL, antihypertensive) loaded ethyl cellulose (EC) nanoparticles were prepared by the spray drying process using Placket Burman Design (PBD). The amount of EC (A, mg), Methanol (B, ml), Inlet temperature (C, OC), Feed rate (D, rpm), Nozzle diameter (E, mm) and Aspiration (F, rpm) were considered independent variables while EE of RPG (Y1) and EE of DIL (Y2) were selected as dependent variables. The optimized DIL and RPG loaded EC nanoparticles were further used for the development of oral fast disintegrating sustained release tablets by direct compression method. The tablets were evaluated for weight variation, thickness, hardness, disintegration time, friability and dissolution test. FTIR study showed no chemical interaction between drug and polymer. Scanning electron microscope showed spherical as well as oval shape and discrete nature of both nanoparticles. The physical parameters of oral fast disintegrating tablets developed with optimized formulation of drug loaded nanoparticles were found within the range. Drug loaded nanoparticles as well as oral fast disintegrating tablets showed very good sustained release behavior.

Production of cellulose nanocrystals from pineapple crown fibers through alkaline pretreatment and acid hydrolysis under different conditions

In the growing search for sustainability, nanocellulose has stood out, since it is obtained from natural fibers, a renewable and biodegradable source, being able to promote the reuse of agricultural waste. Due to their high availability and low cost, residues from pineapple consumption become a viable alternative for the nanocellulose production process, which has not been explored so far. In this sense, the work aimed to produce nanocellulose from pineapple crowns, via acid hydrolysis, promoting the study of different process conditions, to define which methods obtained better results. The fibers were pretreated by mercerizing with sodium hydroxide and bleaching with hydrogen peroxide and sodium hydroxide. This was followed by hydrolysis with sulfuric acid to obtain the nanoparticles. Chemical characterization and scanning electron microscopy were performed on the crude and bleached fibers, and transmission electron microscopy on the produced nanocellulose. The treatments were effective in reducing lignin and hemicellulose in the fiber, and microscopy proved the production of cellulose nanoparticles, with an average width equal to 10.38nm. Therefore, the results confirmed the potential of the process used to obtain nanocellulose from the pineapple crowns.