High-performance application of nanocellulose in the field of daily chemicals: technical analysis based on rheology, interface science and green material engineering

As the global daily chemical industry accelerates its transformation towards high performance, low irritation and sustainability, nanocellulose ( Nanocellulose ) derived from natural fibers is becoming a new functional material with strategic value. Its unique nanostructure, high specific surface area and designable interface properties enable it to demonstrate excellent rheological regulation, interface stability, structure construction and active delivery capabilities in daily chemical systems , and can provide technical support for the next generation of high-end personal care products.

This article systematically analyzes the functional mechanism and industrial application value of nanocellulose in the field of daily chemicals from the perspectives of materials engineering and colloidal chemistry.

1. Material basis: Structural characteristics and performance advantages of nanocellulose

Nanocellulose can be mainly divided into three categories:

CNF (cellulose nanofiber)

CNC (cellulose nanocrystal)

T-CNF ( TEMPO oxidized nanocellulose)

Its performance originates from nanoscale fibers (diameter the three-dimensional network built by 5–30 nm ) and molecular-level hydroxyl / carboxyl structures:

1. High specific surface area (up to 200–300 m²/g)

It can efficiently absorb surfactants, plant extracts and oil phase components.

2. Adjustable interface structure containing hydroxyl/carboxyl groups

It shows high hydrophilicity and stability in the water phase, and can build a stable fiber network in the formula.

3. Typical thixotropy and non-Newtonian behavior

Its colloidal system has obvious shear -thinning characteristics and is very suitable for the application scenarios of daily chemical products, such as:

When left standing: high viscosity, stable suspension

When in use: good fluidity, easy to spread, good skin feel

4. Completely degradable and of natural origin

In line with the development trend of ' microplastic-free ' and ' Clean Beauty ' .

2. Mechanism of action: Technical contribution of nanocellulose in daily chemical systems

1. Network Structuring

Nanocellulose forms a stable three-dimensional network through hydrogen bonding and physical entanglement, which can significantly improve the structural strength of the system:

Prevent particle settling

Inhibit oil-water stratification

Available in clear gel texture

Its network structure can achieve thickening without high concentration, replacing traditional polymer thickeners, and has the advantage of a light and non-sticky formula.

2. Advanced Rheology Modulation

Nanocellulose provides a designable rheology profile that can be precisely adjusted:

Zero -shear viscosity

Yield Stress​

Thixotropic Recovery​

Suitable for transparent systems that require high suspending power and high transparency, such as transparent hand sanitizers, essences and fragrance gels.

3. Particle suspension and interface stabilization (Colloid Stabilization)

The fiber network of nanocellulose physically clamps the particles, allowing them to remain in stable suspension without the need for additional emulsifiers:

Applies to:

Fragrance oil beads

capsule particles

Pearlescent particles

Plant micropowder

Compared with traditional suspending agents, nanocellulose does not affect the transparency and skin feel of the system, and has higher salt stability.

4. Film formation and performance enhancement (Film Formation)

Nanocellulose can form an ultra-thin, breathable and flexible nanofilm layer on the skin surface, used for:

Improve the durability of makeup setting products

Enhance the smoothing effect of hair care products

Improve skin barrier protection

Enhance hydration sustainability

Its film-forming structure is a natural polysaccharide film, which has good compatibility with sebum and moisture and has a light and thin skin feel.

5. Active substance delivery and sustained release (Controlled Release)

Thanks to its high specific surface area and multi-site adsorption capacity, nanocellulose can be used as a natural carrier for:

Stable sensitive activity (vitamin C , flavonoids, plant polyphenols)

Improve dispersion and bioaccessibility of active ingredients

Construct a sustained-release system to extend the efficacy and action period

Suitable for high-end essences and repair products.

3. Typical application scenarios and technical effects (high-end daily chemical direction)

Product Type	Technical functions	scientific principles	final effect
Transparent hand soap /shower gel	Suspension, thickening, salt resistance	Nanofiber network forms high yield stress structure	High transparency, no layering, high-grade gel feel
High-performance essence	Rheology control, activity delivery	Adsorption /sustained release effect to prevent activity instability	Good ductility, quick absorption, and premium feeling of use
Makeup setting spray /makeup	film formation	Ultra-thin nanofilm improves adhesion	Long-lasting, anti-smudge makeup
Shampoo /Conditioner	Structural control and improved slippery feel	Network structure improves hair surface friction	Smoother, softer, no tangles
Liquid Mask /Liquid Mask	Moisturizing, barrier strengthening	The nanofilm layer forms a 'micro-water-retaining layer'	Enhanced hydration and firmer skin

4. Future-oriented strategic value of materials

Nanocellulose is not only a ' formulation aid ' , but also a green functional material with strategic significance, which can bring:

1. Environmentally friendly advantages of replacing microplastics and petrochemical thickeners

Help companies improve their ESG and international compliance capabilities.

2. High-performance rheology control tools enable lighter formula innovation

3. Bio-based membrane materials can be used for high-end skin care and hair repair

4. Can be combined with active substances to develop new functional systems (such as intelligent sustained-release systems)

Nanocellulose will become an important structural raw material for high-end daily chemical products in the future.

5. Conclusion: Use material technology to promote the daily chemical industry into the 'green high-performance era'

With its unique nanostructure, biological safety and designable interface functions, nanocellulose is promoting the upgrade of the daily chemical industry from traditional thickener systems to advanced material systems with controllable structures, designable functions and natural origins .

For daily chemical companies seeking high performance, differentiation, and environmental protection, nanocellulose is not only an additive, but also a breakthrough in material technology, providing unlimited possibilities for high-end daily chemical products in the future.