Bio-Based Nanocellulose Fibers used to Create Strongest Bio-Material in the World

Swedish scientists at the KTH Royal Institute of Technology have created a bio-based material made of cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) which they report to be stronger than all other man-made or natural bio-based materials, including spider silk and wood. The scientists are able to create incredibly strong macroscale fibers from CNF by controlling the particle size, interactions, alignment, diffusion, network formation and assembly. The result is nearly perfect unidirectional alignment of CNF into fibers with incredible strength. The authors report strengths exceeding metals, alloys, and glass fibers. Potential applications for the stronger, more lightweight material could include uses in airplanes, automobile, furniture and other products.