Effects of Cellulose Nanocrystals as Extender on Physical and Mechanical Properties of Wood Cement Composite Panels

The effects of cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) particles were investigated relative to the physical, mechanical, and microstructural properties of wood cement composite panels. Wood and cement were mixed at three ratios of 1:3, 1:3.5, and 1:4. Calcium chloride was added at 3 and 5%. CNC was added to the mixture at five levels (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, and 1%, based on dry weight of cement). The results showed that CNC content of 0.5% had the best impact on the properties. The overall trend showed that with the addition of CNC, tensile, flexural, and physical properties of the composites were considerably enhanced. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that the addition of CNC was associated with an improved integrity in the micro-structure of panels.