Enhancing Latex-based Coatings and Pressure Sensitive Adhesives with Carboxylated Cellulose Nanocrystals

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This proposal seeks to develop latex-based pressure-sensitive adhesive products using carboxylated cellulosenanocrystals (CNCs) which are sustainable nanoparticles derived from wood pulp with a strong Canadianpresence. Specifically, we aim to use carboxylated CNCs as an enhancement agent in latexes by adding themeither during or post polymer synthesis. We hypothesize that incorporating carboxylated CNCs will modify themicrostructural properties of the latex and improve their overall performance. Ultimately, we will worktowards pressure-sensitive adhesives with significant bio-based content by replacing petrochemical-derivedmonomers with starch, and/or other monomers from plant sources. Anomera Inc. is the largest producer ofcarboxylated CNCs worldwide and the only producer that uses 100% Forest Stewardship certified Canadianforest and a patented eco-friendly method. While their CNCs are currently used in cosmetic and compositeapplications they would like to extend the range of value-added products that can be produced from theirmaterial. BASF is providing support with industrial-scale latex formulations, while Rayonier AdvancedMaterials represents an end-user seeking assistance with adhesives for paperboard applications. CNCs havemany potential applications due to their high mechanical strength, large aspect ratio, non-toxicity andbiodegradability; however, the development of commercial products containing CNCs is still in its infancy andmany polymer applications have yet to be explored. In addition to pressure-sensitive adhesives, latex polymers are also used in a broad range of applications including coatings, thin films, paints, and rubbers such that this research can easily be translated to open new application avenues for CNCs. The synergy between expertise in the Dubé (environmentally-benign polymer reaction engineering), Cunningham and Champagne (polymer synthesis and grafting), and Cranston (preparation, modification and characterization of CNCs) research groups will allow for rapid development of novel commercial products with many Canadian industrial receptors. This research will ensure that Canada remains at the forefront of scientific discoveries for CNCs.