Birefringent properties of aqueous cellulose nanocrystal suspensions

Abstract Birefringence measurements of aqueous cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) suspensions are reported. Seven with concentrations between 0.7 and 1.3% per weight sheared in a Taylor-Couette type setting characterized using birefringent measurement technique based on linear polarized light acquisition polarization camera. Steady state shear rates up to 31 1/s show extinction angles 23°–40° birefringence the order 1e–5. The findings demonstrate utility CNC for flow studies.