Physical Cross-Linking of Cellulose Nanofibrils with Zein Particles as an Eco-Friendly Detergent

Pickering particles can self-assemble to form a rigid barrier film at the oil-water interface, effectively inhibiting droplet aggregation and stabilizing the emulsion. This essay explores the potential of Zein/TOCNF (TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofiber) complex aqueous dispersion as an environmentally friendly, nontoxic, versatile, and inexpensive cleaning agent based on the Pickering effect. The Zein/TOCNF complex exhibited an improvement in its surface hydrophobicity compared to that of pure TOCNF, so that it could be used as Pickering emulsion stabilizers. The Zein/TOCNF complex has better washing ability than the washing powder for the removal of the dirt from the cotton cloth, the glass, the stainless steel, the ceramic, and the plastic sheet. In addition, residual amounts of Zein/TOCNF complexes on the fabric were insignificant. Moreover, research results have shown that Zein/TOCNF complexes are feasible as a secure, cost-effective, and sustainable alternative to commercial washing cleaners.