The global shift towards sustainability has ignited a fervent interest in bio-based materials and energy-efficient technologies. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), derived from renewable resources, have emerged as a promising solution for composites, biomedical materials, and packaging. However, the energy-intensive drying process poses a significant challenge in CNC production, requiring the removal of large amounts of water from low-concentration suspensions.
In response to this challenge, a pioneering team of researchers from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Purdue University has unveiled an innovative multi-frequency ultrasonic drying technology. This groundbreaking method not only expedites the drying process but also slashes energy consumption compared to conventional drying techniques such as hot air, spray, and freeze drying.
The study compared the drying kinetics, product quality, and energy efficiency of various drying methods. The ultrasonic drying process stole the show by delivering a jaw-dropping 50% reduction in drying time compared to traditional hot air drying.
What’s more, it maintained minimal change in particle size, showcasing its remarkable redispersibility.
The ultrasonic drying method also proved its mettle by demonstrating superior stability in aqueous solutions, boasting zeta potentials ranging from -35 to -65 mV—an essential factor for the colloidal stability of CNCs.
When it comes to energy consumption and environmental impact, ultrasonic drying technology has emerged as the undisputed champion. It boasted significantly lower specific energy consumption and the potential to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions when powered by renewable electricity. This innovation perfectly aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and achieve ambitious net-zero goals.
The researchers have unequivocally established that ultrasonic drying represents a groundbreaking and sustainable method for drying CNCs, presenting a scalable solution for the biomaterials industry. This innovative approach not only significantly improves the efficiency of CNC production but also champions environmental sustainability by drastically reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions.
Journal reference:
- Junli Liu, Amir Malvandi, Hao Feng. Comprehensive comparison of cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) drying using multi-frequency ultrasonic technology with selected conventional drying technologies. Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts, 2024; DOI: 10.1016/j.jobab.2024.07.003
