| Lignocellulosic fibers have become the focus of intense interest in recent years. They have attracted the attention of scientists and technologies worldwide because of their tremendous advantages and now it is possible to isolate cellulose nanofibrils and nanowhiskers from various lignocellulosic wastes. Studies in this area have shown that both cellulose nanofibrils and nanowhiskers could be used as reinforcing fillers to improve mechanical and barrier properties of different types of polymer systems which include rubbers, thermoplastics and thermosets. This review paper provides an overview of recent progress made in the area of nanocellulose and nanowhiskers preparation from various natural fibers. A thorough review of the various techniques being currently used for the isolation of cellulose nanofibers and nanowhiskers has been presented. Finally, the emerging applications of these materials in various fields including nanocomposite preparation have been presented. |
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