May 29 2014
Nanocellulose (NC) is a highly versatile material with unique properties that allow it to be used in numerous industrial applications. Growth in nanotechnology has been dramatic, with some nanomaterials seeing growth rates in excess of 30% annually.
Derived most often from woodpulp, nanocellulose is unique among nanomaterials in that it is bio-based, renewable, biodegradable, non-toxic, and relatively inexpensive. A new study released today by RISI, the leading information provider for the global forest products industry, examines nanocellulose market opportunities and technologies.
"It is important to understand that nanocellulose is not just one thing. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and cellulose nanofrbrils (CNF) are quite different. CNC is extremely strong, and individual cellulose nanocrystals are stronger than carbon fiber, and have unique electrical and optical properties. Cellulose nanocrystals also carry a charge, and are chemically active. They can be modified for use in a wide range of applications including oil and gas, adhesives, paints and coatings, nonwovens, composites, and much more," explained Jack Miller, study author and Principal Consultant for Market-Intel LLC.
"According to the U.S. Forest Service, it is estimated that nanocellulose could add $600 billion to the U.S. economy by 2020, and cellulose nanofibrils are already being used in papermaking. Producers of nanocellulose have attracted attention from suppliers of materials like chemicals and adhesives, and also from end-users of these materials, such as automakers, major brand companies, and pharmaceutical companies," continued Miller.
NANOCELLULOSE: Technology, Applications and Markets reviews the development of nanocellulose technology and markets from the 1950s to today. Providing a forecast until 2025, this study details the challenges and opportunities of this growing market and fully defines the different types of nanocellulose, its characteristics, preparation, and applications. The study is based on extensive research, including interviews with 29 experts from industry and academia, and more than 100 references to technical papers, conference presentations books, and magazine articles – most with hyperlinks.
Analysis included in NANOCELLULOSE: Technology, Applications and Markets:
- Review of the evolution and development of cellulose nanofibrils (CNF), cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and bacterial nanocellulose (BNC)
- Analysis of the differences between CNF, CNC and BNC: properties and applications
- Implications and opportunities for end users and processors of nanocellulose
- Review of c. 100 patents and patent applications – all hyperlinked
- Profiles of more than 60 corporations, associations and universities around the world that are producing or conducting research related to nanocellulose
- Review of markets and analysis of market potential
- Analysis of the road ahead, with forecast of nanocellulose production to 2025
For more information on this study, visit www.risi.com/nanocellulose.
Source: http://www.risiinfo.com