Processing of Tunicates to Produce High Quality Cellulose Nanocrystals

TuniStrong is developing commercial system for the utilization of tunicates (an invasive species) to produce cellulose nanocrystals. The cellulose nanocrystals from tunicates have higher aspect ratio as compared to plant-based cellulose nanocrystals and provides higher reinforcement when used as a filler in composites. The proposed project focuses on understanding the effect of operating conditions of integrated process i.e., pre-treatment of tunicates, impregnation, mild-alkaline treatment, bleaching, sulphuric acid hydrolysis and ultrafiltration on the properties of cellulose nanocrystals. The goal is to optimize the process and transfer the knowledge to TuniStrong to be integrated in the commercial system. Additionally, the application of tunicate-based cellulose nanocrystals in cement and composite materials will be studied.

Faculty Supervisor:

Bishnu Acharya

Student:

Partner:

TuniStrong Inc.

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

University of Saskatchewan

Program: