Surface modification of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) by a cationic surfactant

Surface modification of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) is very important to explore new applications for these CNC. In this study, a cationic surfactant, hexadecyltrimethylammonium (HDTMA) bromide, was used to modify the surface of CNC. Chemical and structural characterizations of CNC were conducted before and after modification. Results revealed that the chemical reaction of CNC with HDTMA led to the presence of new chemical groups (CH2, CH3 and quaternary ammonium groups) on the surface of the CNC. Experiments conducted by X-ray diffraction indicated no change in the crystalline structure as a result of the modification. Modified CNC had different suspension stabilities and dispersibility compared to unmodified CNC. The results of this study demonstrated that HDTMA can be used for a simple and straightforward surface modification with no negative effects on CNC.