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The pulp and paper industry in the western world faces stiff competition from developing markets.  It is, therefore, necessary to develop new value added products and new uses of cellulose based materials. Research into the nanotechnology of cellulose has been ongoing in different parts of the world including the US, Canada and Scandinavia [ Nanotechnology].

In Canada, the most recent development is the construction of a one-tonne per day nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) demonstration plant, a joint venture between FPInnovations and Domtar. The financial backing is provided for FP Innovations by Natural Resources Canada and Quebec’s Natural Resources and Wild Life Ministry [1].  The cellulose in pulp is up to 70% in NCC form and 30% amorphous. The size of the NCC generated is 150-200 nanometers long and 5-10 nanometers in diameter. Many possibilities exist for enhancing existing materials’ properties by adding NCC. These include:

Adding NCC to varnish to make it harder and more abrasion resistant. One application would be for hardwood floors and cabinetry. Adding NCC to water-based paints also improves their handling and application.

When NCC is added to some liquids the resulting dried surface has a shimmering, iridescent, color. This effect can potentially be used in security marks on paper, and in the cosmetics industry.

Full story at - http://pulpandpapercircle.com/2010/08/nanocellulose-demonstration-plant-unveiled/