Research Information System
in: Nanocellulose: Harnessing Sustainability from Biomass to Biocomposites, Elsevier, pp.145-173, 2026
Nitrocellulose (NC), also known as cellulose nitrate, is a highly combustible polymer that has been widely used in various applications, including paints and lacquers, high explosives, and propellants. The raw materials typically used for NC production are wood or cotton, but alternative sources of cellulose have recently gained attention to improve the sustainability of NC production. Lignocellulosic biomass, including hemp, jute, and agricultural residues, has shown great potential as a source of cellulose for NC production. The utilization of these alternative sources of cellulose offers several advantages, including cost-effectiveness, renewability and sustainability, and potential environmental benefits. However, challenges still exist in the extraction and processing of cellulose from these sources, and further research is necessary to optimize their potential as raw materials for NC production. In recent years, there has also been a growing demand for propellants and advanced energetic materials (EMs) with improved energy release, ignition, and combustion behaviors. To meet this demand, multidimensional scale EMs, including nanosized EMs, have been developed. The incorporation of nanotechnology into NC production has shown promising results in enhancing its mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties. Furthermore, nitro-nanocellulose has emerged as a potential candidate for advanced EM due to its enhanced energy release and improved mechanical properties. This review provides an updated summary of recent advancements in the processes for transforming lignocellulosic biomass into NC and nitro-nanocellulose. It also highlights the challenges associated with the extraction and processing of cellulose from alternative sources and discusses potential technological strategies for producing EMs. The future perspectives and opportunities for developing sustainable and efficient production methods for NC and advanced EM are also presented.