Processes for producing nanocellulose, and nanocellulose compositions produced therefrom

Abstract

Various processes are disclosed for producing nanocellulose materials following steam extraction or hot-water digestion of biomass. Processes are also disclosed for producing nanocellulose materials from a wide variety of starting pulps or pretreated biomass feedstocks. The nanocellulose materials may be used as rheology modifiers in many applications. Water-based and oil-based drilling fluid formulations and additives are provided. Also, water-based and oil-based hydraulic fracturing fluid formulations and additives are provided. In other embodiments, polymer-nanocellulose composites are provided.

Description

PRIORITY DATA[0001]This non-provisional patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent App. No. 62 / 235,052, filed on Sep. 30, 2015, which is incorporated by reference herein.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention generally relates to processes for preparing high-viscosity cellulosic compounds from lignocellulosic biomass.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Biomass refining (or biorefining) has become more prevalent in industry. Cellulose fibers and sugars, hemicellulose sugars, lignin, syngas, and derivatives of these intermediates are being utilized for chemical and fuel production. Indeed, we now are observing the commercialization of integrated biorefineries that are capable of processing incoming biomass much the same as petroleum refineries now process crude oil. Underutilized lignocellulosic biomass feedstocks have the potential to be much cheaper than petroleum, on a carbon basis, as well as much better from an environmental life-cycle standpoint.[0004]...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a process for producing a nanocellulose material and a biomass-derived rheology modifier from cellulosic biomass. The process involves digesting the biomass with a reaction solution containing steam and / or hot water to produce a digested stream containing cellulose-rich solids, hemicellulose oligomers, and lignin. The cellulose-rich solids are then mechanically treated to form nanocellulose material containing cellulose nanofibrils and cellulose nanocrystals. The nanocellulose material may also contain lignin particles. The process may also include recovering, fermenting, or further treating the hemicellulosic sugars derived from the hemicellulose oligomers. The nanocellulose material can be used to produce a biomass-derived rheology modifier by gelling and homogenizing the cellulose-rich solids. The process provides a sustainable and cost-effective way to produce these materials.

Problems solved by technology

While cellulose-based materials have been generally recognized as possible components in drilling and fracturing fluids, heretofore there has not been an economical process to provide cellulose-based materials, with adjustable properties for different types of fluids and additives.

Images