About this Research Topic
The field of nanocelluloses, specifically those harvested from plant biomass measuring between 5−60 nm, marks a significant stride towards sustainable material technologies, notable for their exceptional traits. These natural polymers present advantageous attributes like light weight, remarkable strength, and thermal stability akin to Kevlar and quartz glass, which bolster the mechanical integrity of various matrices. However, their inherent hydrophilicity necessitates chemical alterations to broaden their applicability. Lignin, a naturally hydrophobic compound from plant cell walls, has traditionally been discarded in nanocellulose preparation processes; its integration is oriented towards overcoming the water susceptibility without reliance on chemically intensive modification processes. Besides, the protective attributes of lignin (UV and microbial resistance) are being debated as beneficial for enhancing material functionalities.
This Research Topic aims to deepen the understanding and exploitation of ligno-nanocellulose’s potential. Its rotating focus includes exploring lignin’s interaction within nanocellulose structures, determining ways to leverage its inherent properties for strengthening material composites, and expanding the current knowledge base on its multifunctional benefits. With the integration of lignin, these materials could revolutionize approaches in bioplastics, reinforcing their role in environmentally responsible applications without diminishing performance.
To gather further insights within this field, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Production and properties of ligno-nanocelluloses.
- Modification techniques for enhanced performance.
- Development of composites utilizing ligno-nanocelluloses.
- Applications in films, coatings, and packaging solutions.
- Bioplastic formulations incorporating ligno-nanocelluloses.
- Emerging research areas and novel applications of ligno-nanocelluloses.
This Research Topic aims to deepen the understanding and exploitation of ligno-nanocellulose’s potential. Its rotating focus includes exploring lignin’s interaction within nanocellulose structures, determining ways to leverage its inherent properties for strengthening material composites, and expanding the current knowledge base on its multifunctional benefits. With the integration of lignin, these materials could revolutionize approaches in bioplastics, reinforcing their role in environmentally responsible applications without diminishing performance.
To gather further insights within this field, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Production and properties of ligno-nanocelluloses.
- Modification techniques for enhanced performance.
- Development of composites utilizing ligno-nanocelluloses.
- Applications in films, coatings, and packaging solutions.
- Bioplastic formulations incorporating ligno-nanocelluloses.
- Emerging research areas and novel applications of ligno-nanocelluloses.
Keywords: Lignin-containing nanocelluloses, nanofibers, nanocrystals, lignocellulose, composite, packaging, coating, films, sustainable bioplastic
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
