Fundamental Issues Governing The Properties and Functions of Nanocellulose Networks

Nanocellulose networks have been extensively surveyed as so-called nanopapers for packaging applications on one hand and membranes for purification purposes on the other. Despite the two distinct ways of end use, the fundamentals of the network structure and its function remain the same. This presentation aims to introduce a fundamental discussion from both sides by consolidating both aspects. For example, hemicellulose is seen as a binder molecule when assessing the tensile properties of dry nanopapers but its water-accumulating capability in wet state is rarely discussed in membrane technology or even with hydrogels. Similarly, porosity is among the central properties of membranes but it is not usually considered with nanopapers, notwithstanding its pivotal role in strength development of any cellular material. The aim here is to address similar parameters from different application perspectives.