A versatile method for producing functionalized cellulose nanofibers and their application

A facile method was developed to produce functionalized cellulose nanofibers in one step by ball milling. Through the synergy of mechanical and chemical actions, the produced cellulose nanofibers are ca. 20 nm wide and several micrometers long, with surface properties tailored by choice of modifying reagent. Modified by succinic anhydride, a cellulose nanofiber shows enhanced hydrophilicity, can be readily dispersed in water or DMSO, and gives a...