Structural and Rheological Investigation of Polymer-Grafted Cellulose Nanocrystals

Shear-flow induced organization of poly(acrylic acid)-grafted cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) can influence water swelling and water permeability within CNC-based membranes. We will present the effect of polymer grafting parameters (graft density and length) on the network formation via hydrogen bondings between chains. The grafted nanocrystal networks formed by hydrogen bonds can be made to assemble in ordered and disordered states. These states will be studied for their chain swelling and effective ion bindings from water at different pH values. Concentration dependence of viscosity and phase transitions to the ordered and disordered networks will be evaluated in solution rheology. Structural and rheological investigations of polymer grafted CNCs hold potential applications for sustainable membrane technologies.