Suspensions and hydrogels of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs): characterization using microscopy and rheology

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are rapidly increasingly used nanomaterials with a large surface area, outstanding mechanical characteristics, and the capacity to exhibit variable surface chemistry, allowing them to be incorporated into a variety of matrices. An examination of information from various firms on scales of tonnes per day suggests an increasing tendency for the use of CNC-based products. Here, we review recent advances in microstructural characterization of CNC-based suspensions and hydrogels utilizing imaging and rheological approaches. We demonstrate how microscopy and rheology can be utilized to adjust and improve the final macro characteristics of CNC-based systems. Novel applications, e.g., 3D printing, for CNC suspensions and gels are also introduced. Indeed, because CNC-based products show significant potential for biomedical, energy, cosmetics, filtration, and food applications, using existing characterization methods and models to fine-tune the CNC colloid properties cannot be ruled out. All references were selected from recent publications (earlier than 2010).