Nanomanufacturing metrology for cellulosic nanomaterials: an update
The development of the metrology and standards for advanced manufacturing of cellulosic nanomaterials (or
basically, wood-based nanotechnology) is imperative to the success of this rising economic sector. Wood-based
nanotechnology is a revolutionary technology that will create new jobs and strengthen America’s forest-based
economy through industrial development and expansion. It allows this, previously perceived, low-tech industry
to leap-frog directly into high-tech products and processes and thus improves its current economic slump. Recent
global investments in nanotechnology programs have led to a deeper appreciation of the high performance
nature of cellulose nanomaterials. Cellulose, manufactured to the smallest possible-size (~2 nm x ~100 nm),
is a high-value material that enables products to be lighter and stronger; have less embodied energy; utilize no
catalysts in the manufacturing, are biologically compatible and, come from a readily renewable resource. In addition
to the potential for a dramatic impact on the national economy - estimated to be as much as $250 billion
worldwide by 2020 - cellulose-based nanotechnology creates a pathway for expanded and new markets utilizing
these renewable materials. The installed capacity associated with the US pulp and paper industry represents
an opportunity, with investment, to rapidly move to large scale production of nano-based materials. However,
effective imaging, characterization and fundamental measurement science for process control and characterization
are lacking at the present time. This talk will discuss some of these needed measurements and potential
solutions.