The CSIR partnered with the University of Pisa in Italy on the Nanofun project, aimed at designing and developing chemically treated nanocellulose membranes for water treatment applications.

The project received funding from both the National Research Foundation (NRF) in South Africa and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) in Italy.

“Cellulose nanomaterials are environmentally friendly due to a combination of high surface area and absorbency, mechanical strength, and functionalisable properties,” expresses Dr Maya John, Principal Researcher: Advanced Polymer Composites (APC) research group at the CSIR.

“This project aligns with the development of nanocellulose membranes derived from agro-waste for advanced applications such as water remediation and principles of circular economy for converting waste into a value-added product,” she adds.

CSIR researcher at APC, Nomvuyo Nomadolo, spent two weeks at the University of Pisa for nanocellulose functionalisation experiments, which is a key part of the project, currently focused on the chemical functionalization and characterization of nanocellulose.

The CSIR also hosted Prof. Alessandra Operamolla, and Prof. Jeanette Lucejko from the University of Pisa from 20–24 November 2023. The visit revolved around project discussions on the characterization of chemically modified cellulose and the preparation of membranes.

During this visit, Prof. Operamolla gave a lecture on Bio-based polymers from lignocellulosic biomass: from structural characterisation to application as advanced materials.

“In this collaboration project, the University of Pisa will extend its knowledge of innovative functionalisation techniques for nanocellulose to the CSIR in exchange for long-term expertise in nanocellulose product development and characterization, as a complement to the collaboration,” Maya adds.