Production of lignocellulose nanofibrils based on biochemical mechanical pulp from wheat straw

Due to the inherent stability of plant cell wall structure, the utilization of various fiber raw materials is limited in terms of diversification. Therefore, it is crucial to explore a simple, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective strategy for the high-value utilization of fiber raw materials. Herein, lignocellulose nanofibrils (LCNFs) were prepared from wheat straw by a combination of high-yield pulp production technology and mechanical methods. By using the mild biochemical mechanical pulp pretreatment technology, the whole process avoids the use of other organic solvents; only recycled sodium hydroxide chemical reagents are needed. The prepared LCNFs exhibited small particle size range (< 10 nm) and high thermal stability (TMax up to 350.8 °C). Moreover, by adjusting the front-end conditions during preparation, the properties of LCNFs films such as crystallinity, hydrophobicity, and water absorption can be controlled. Overall, this study provides a simple and efficient way for valorizing agricultural waste as well as a feasible alternative to incineration.