Date of Graduation

5-2021

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering (PhD)

Degree Level

Graduate

Department

Chemical Engineering

Advisor/Mentor

Jamie A. Hestekin and David M. Ford

Committee Member

Christa Hestekin

Second Committee Member

Min Zou

Third Committee Member

Audie Key Thompson

Keywords

Cellulose, Coatings, Membranes, Nanomaterials, Oxone, TEMPO

Abstract

Cellulose nanomaterials (CNMs) are derived from plant matter and are comprised of nanoscopic cellulose crystals and fibers. They have a diverse set of applications, from cosmetics to oil recovery. This study focuses on the properties of Oxone® mediated TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanomaterials (OTO-CNMs) and their use in controlling the transport properties of polymeric substrates. Synthesis and characterization of cellulosic nanoparticles have resulted in the creation of OTO-CNMs with properties that increase hydrophilicity. With added hydrophilicity, OTO-CNMs possess lower fouling propensity, making them ideal membrane additive for transport limited separations such as hemodialysis.

To utilize the material and unique properties thereof, this study then explores three possible areas of application development for the OTO-CNMs produced. The three areas explored are nanomaterial characterization, OTO-CNM cellulose triacetate mixed matrix ultrafiltration membrane production, as well as innovative methodology to apply OTO-CNMs as a composite gas barrier coating. This work will lead to the advancement of natural fiber-based nanomaterials and applications thereof.

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