Spray Drying Enzyme-Treated Cellulose Nanofibrils
Published: 2023
Walker, C. C.
Johnson, D.
Han, Y.
Gardner, D. J.
Publication Name: Journal of Polymers
Abstract:
Enzyme-treated cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) were produced via a lab-scale mass colloider
using bleached kraft pulp (BKP) to evaluate their processability and power requirements during
refining and spray-drying operations. To evaluate the energy efficiency in the CNF refining process,
the net energy consumption, degree of polymerization (DP), and viscosity were determined. Less
energy was consumed to attain a given fines level by using the endoglucanase enzymes. The
DP and viscosity were also decreased using the enzymes. The morphological properties of the
enzyme-pretreated spray-dried CNF powders (SDCNFs) were measured. Subsequently, the enzyme
pretreated SDCNFs were added to a PP matrix with MAPPasacoupling agent. The mixture was then
compounded through a co-rotating twin-screw extruder to determine whether the enzyme treatment
of the CNFs affects the mechanical properties of the composites. Compared to earlier studies on
enhancing PMCs with SDCNF powders, this research investigates the use of enzyme-pretreated
SDCNFpowders. It was confirmed that the strength properties of PP increased by adding SDCNFs,
and the strength properties were maintained after adding enzyme-pretreated SDCNFs.