Particle size distribution and yield analysis of different charged cellulose nanofibrils obtained by TEMPO-mediated oxidation

Abstract

Cellulose Nanofibrils (CNF) was successfully obtained by TEMPO (2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine -1-oxyl radical)-mediated oxidation with the addition of different oxidant namely NaClO (Sodium Hypochlorite) i.e. 3, 4, 7, 10 and 15 mL followed by ultra-sonication treatment. Size distribution of nanocellulose was observed using particle size analyzer, while surface charged was measured using zeta potentiometer. At different level of oxidant, CNF obtained different charged with different size distribution. As the amount of oxidant increased, the size distribution of CNF increased which correlated to the higher CNF yield, however it decreased at maximum oxidant addition. Although, in general the yield for nanocellulose was very low. With zeta potential value about -48 mV, it showed very stable suspension in water for more than 8 months observation. An optimum oxidant level promoted thinner and longer CNF which further beneficial for better entanglement in the hydrogel formation application.