High-consistency enzymatic fibrillation (HefCel) - a cost-efficient way to produce cellulose nanofibrils (CNF)

摘要

High-consistency enzymatic fibrillation (HefCel) technology offers a cost-efficient way to produce fibrillated cellulose materials at high consistency (20-40%). The process is simple, consisting only of few steps and can utilize existing industrial equipment. The fibrillation degree and thus the material properties can be tuned by the process conditions. The produced fibrillated cellulose material is at high consistency and easy to handle. The higher dry matter content makes off-site production and transportation more feasible compared to traditional CNFs. In addition, HefCel material is not gel-like, which enhances the water removal. Additional benefit of the process is the recovery of high-value by-product, cellobiose. HefCel material has shown potential in many applications, such as in barrier films, as strengthening additive in board and in all-cellulose structures.