Solvent-free production of thermoplastic lignocellulose from wood pulp by reactive extrusion

A novel acylation approach suited to rapid bulk thermoplasticization of lignocellulose without solvents was previously demonstrated by the authors in benchtop batch studies. The method relies upon a benzethonium chloride/sulfuric acid functionalizing agent at low concentrations act as wetting for wood pulp, similar an ionic liquid, yet binds ester flow aid final thermoplastic. present investigation evaluates residence time-limited (45–90 s) continuous twin-screw reactor, where intensive mixing and heat were found yield high acylation. modified exhibited desired thermoplasticity being melt moldable need plasticizers maintained much excellent stiffness cellulose, demonstrating maximum flexural modulus 5.4 GPa tensile 1.8 GPa. influence extrusion conditions on examined Design Experiments (DOE) analysis.