Microwave-assisted esterification of bleached and unbleached cellulose nanofibers

Microwave-assisted synthetic pathway was explored for the sustainable esterification of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) using an aromatic amine compound. For this purpose, were isolated from unbleached and bleached eucalyptus pulp through homogenization process. The chemical composition, structural properties, morphology, thermal properties extracted investigated. para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) employed to esterify CNFs's aliphatic hydroxyl groups. FTIR 13C NMR spectroscopy confirmed success modification. characterization lignocellulose nanofibrils esterified (CNF-E LCNF-E) grafting counterparts onto surface. thermogravimetric technique assessed stability nanofibrils. affected by resulting in a significant improvement char yield (CR) compared original CNFs (from CR≈ 10% > 20%). Finally, increases functionality introducing ester functionalities, making LCNF-E CNF-E platforms further smart applications.