Preparation of Cellulose Nanocrystals from Microcrystalline Cellulose and Introduction of Methacrylate Groups onto the Surface of Cellulose Nanocrystals

In this study, cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were prepared from microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) using aqueous sulfuric acid and then methacrylate groups capable of radical polymerization were introduced onto the surface of CNC using 3-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (MPTMS). Effects of MPTMS doses on the degree of CNC surface modification were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), elemental analysis (EA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and solid state C-13 and Si-29 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. In the experimental range of the present study, it was confirmed that the amount of methacrylate groups grafted onto the surface of CNC increased as MPTMS doses were increased.