Unleashing Cellulose Potential: Laser-Driven Structural Modulation

Introduction

LaserCell envisions an innovative approach to reshape and rearrange cellulose at the molecular level by disrupting cohesive interactions through resonant excitation of specific bonds. It will revolutionize the field of biopolymer processing beyond cellulose and yield fundamental insights into supramolecular structure and dynamics in biomaterials.

Challenges with Cellulose Processing

Although cellulose is biodegradable and mechanically strong, it cannot be processed by conventional thermoplastic polymer methods, which limits its use as a high-volume material. Cellulose decomposes before it melts because of cooperative intermolecular hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions.

Proposed Solution

To plasticize cellulose, I propose to disrupt these intermolecular bonds with photon energy delivered by infrared (IR) laser pulses. Employing wavelengths matching specific vibrational modes, the photon energy will be resonantly absorbed, thus effectively plasticizing cellulose.

Energy Dissipation

I envision that the rapid energy dissipation in short pulses will deliver enough peak power to disrupt the intermolecular bonds while avoiding thermal damage.

Research Plan

I plan to systematically investigate how laser parameters influence the supramolecular structure of cellulose and establish analytical tools to characterize its structural transitions under mechanical load.

Processability Enhancement

Additionally, to allow processability in different setups, I aim to prolong the time window of plasticization and adjust the flowability by using laser irradiation in synergy with hydrogen-disrupting molecules.

Proof of Concept

As a proof of concept, I will implement this novel photo-plasticization technique into a cellulose fiber spinning process and post-treatment to modulate the cellulose fiber crystallinity.

Background and Team

I have worked for 10 years on cellulose-based materials and have a strong background in fiber spinning and material science. My research group will engage 1 PhD student and 2 Postdocs with backgrounds in polymer science and laser physics and technology.