Content of research

Cellulose synthesized by bacteria and called bacterial cellulose (BC) has unique properties such as high water retention, high strength, biodegradability, and biocompatibility. In recent years, nano-sized cellulose materials (nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC)) has also been attracting attention. In general, NFC is prepared top-down from pulp by physical and chemical treatments, and the resulting NFC is highly dispersed in water. In contrast, by optimizing the culture conditions of cellulose-synthesizing bacteria, it is possible to prepare nanofibrillated BC (NFBC: Fibnano?) from low-molecular biomass in a bottom-up manner. In collaboration with a company in Hokkaido, we have succeeded in the mass production of NFBC (Fibnano?) from molasses, a byproduct of sugar production.

Potential for social implementation

• ・Food
• ・Cosmetics
• ・Pharmaceuticals
• ・Devices, etc.

Appealing points to industry and local governments

NFBC (Fibnano?) can be used in a wide range of fields because of its high uniformity due to bottom-up production and excellent flowability, miscibility, and moldability. Recently, we have succeeded in developing amphiphilic NFBC, which can be dispersed in polar organic solvents such as methanol, acetone, isopropyl alcohol, THF, and DMF.