Nanostructured Biomaterials and Biocomposites from Bacterial Cellulose Nanofibers

Cellulose is one of the most abundant component of biomass in nature and the basic feedstock in paper and pulp industries. Cellulose fibres are relatively strong; have breaking strengths of up to 1 GN/m(2) (10,000 MPa). Traditionally extracted from plant tissue (trees, cotton, etc.) cellulose can also be produced, using certain bacterial species, by fermentation in the form of nanofibers, yielding a very pure cellulose product with unique properties. Research in the biosynthesis of microbial cellulose and its application are being pursued intensively. Bacterial cellulose possesses unique physical properties that distinguish it from plant-derived cellulose. Its fibre has a high aspect ratio with a fibre diameter of 20-100 nm. As a result, it has a very high surface area per unit mass. This property, when combined with its very hydrophilic nature, results in very high liquid loading capacity. The unique properties of this natural and biocompatible nanofiber make it an attractive candidate for a wide range of applications in many different industries especially those related to Biomedical and Biotechnology.