Recent Progress in Production Methods for Cellulose Nanocrystals: Leading to More Sustainable Processes

Abstract Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are a new class of biodegradable nanomaterial derived from the most abundant and renewable biomass on the planet: cellulose. Due to their potential as a low carbon footprint nanomaterial, CNCs have received significant interest in the community for a wide variety of applications. In this review, the most recent strategies exploited to produce CNCs are therefore summarized, focusing on the “greener” isolation methods aiming at minimizing the environmental impact of their production. The environmental impact of each CNCs production method is qualitatively evaluated and the properties of the CNCs obtained are discussed. Finally, the necessary steps to address the development of the field in the industrial context are discussed, focusing on the type of applications where the CNCs can be exploited.