Grants and Contributions:

Grant or Award spanning more than one fiscal year. (2017-2018 to 2022-2023)

Due to the scientific drive and social necessity for more environmentally friendly products, the proposed research program focuses on developing novel materials from renewable resources. Specifically, it aims to transform the performance of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) through interfacial engineering which will extend the range of applications for an emerging Canadian material from the forest industry. Through close contact with industry, we will elucidate the links between particle chemistry and functionality with an emphasis on imparting new properties which are crucial for commercial products. This research is essential to enable widespread use of nanocellulose in strategic Canadian industries, including pulp & paper, food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, oil & gas, and manufacturing.

My long term goal is to establish CNCs as a material platform through the development of new science & technology which will lead to new markets for Canadian wood pulp. We will overcome major challenges in CNC development including compatibility/stability, uniform manufacturing, and environmental, health and safety issues. In the short term, 3 PhD and 12 undergraduate students will carry out 3 interconnected projects employing state-of-the-art facilities in McMaster’s Biointerfaces, Brockhouse and Manufacturing Research Institutes:

1. Tailoring CNCs for Extreme Thermal & Colloidal Stability. CNCs have potential in oil & gas fluids and composites because they are “green” and their size, shape, and crystallinity lend well to rheological and mechanical control. Findings from this project will decipher stability mechanisms and allow for small changes during industrial CNC production to improve material performance thus bringing CNCs to the energy/construction sector.

2. Developing Design Rules for Auto-adhering Polymers to CNCs. Liquid formulations for food, pharmaceutical and household products can be improved through the addition of CNCs which stabilize interfaces and control viscosity better than surfactants or polymers alone. Understanding polymer adsorption to CNCs will lead to tailorability of CNC emulsions, gels and foams.

3. Assembling CNC Clusters – a New Material for Advanced Rheological Control. Small quantities of anisotropic particles offer superior rheological control; CNCs in inks, adhesives, and biomedical devices are close to commercialization, however, in some markets the use of nanoparticles is discouraged due to insufficient evidence of safety with long-term exposure. This work will control particle assembly by crosslinking CNCs into clusters to broaden “non-nano” applications.

This diverse program spans from chemistry to engineering and can bridge gaps between CNC producers, R&D and commercial receptors of new technology. It provides numerous opportunities for innovative breakthroughs and world-class training in advanced material design & characterization.