Bacterian Nanocellulose vs. Vegetable Nanocellulose: ¿Why Bacterial is the option of the future?
Nanocellulose has emerged as a key biomaterial in various industries thanks to its exceptional properties: it is lightweight, resistant, biodegradable and versatile. However, within this field, there are two main types of nanocellulose: vegetable nanocellulose and bacterial nanocellulose. Although both materials share some characteristics, their key differences make Bacterial Nanocellulose (NBC) stand out as the most promising and efficient option for the future.
What is Vegetable Nanocellulose?
Vegetable nanocellulose is extracted from plant sources, such as wood, cotton or sugarcane bagasse, and comes mainly in three forms:
Cellulose nanofibers (CNF): It is obtained through the mechanical disintegration of plant fibers.
Vegetable nanocellulose (CNC) crystals: It is produced by a chemical process of hydrolysis, which results in crystalline particles.
Nanostructured amorphous cellulose (ANC): Less common, derived from less processed cellulosic materials.
This type of Nanocellulose is used in a variety of industries, such as paper, cosmetics, medicine, and biotechnology. However, the process of extracting Vegetable Nanocellulose is energy-intensive and, in many cases, requires the use of harsh chemicals, which can affect the environmental impact.
What is Bacterial Nanocellulose?
Bacterial Nanocellulose (NBC), on the other hand, is produced by bacteria, through a natural fermentation process. This difference in origin has a significant impact on their properties. Bacterial Nanocellulose (NBC) is extremely pure, free of natural contaminants such as lignin and hemicellulose (present in vegetable cellulose), which makes it much more homogeneous in its structure. In addition, Bacterial Nanocellulose (NBC) has exceptional mechanical properties and can be produced in a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way.
Comparative Properties
Feature | Vegetable Nanocellulose | Bacterial Nanocellulose |
Fountain | Plants (wood, cotton, sugar cane) | Bacteria in the process of fermentation |
Production Process | Energy and chemical intensive | Sustainable, natural process |
Purity | May contain lignin and hemicellulose | High purity, free of contaminants |
Biocompatibility | Low, not ideal for medical applications | High, ideal for medical applications |
Strength and Flexibility | Less flexible and rugged than NBC | High strength, flexibility and elasticity |
Applications | Paper, Packaging, Medicine, Cosmetics | Medicine, cosmetics, tissue engineering, food packaging |
Why Bacterial Nanocellulose (NBC) is the Best Choice?
High Purity and Quality.
Bacterial Nanocellulose (NBC) is extremely pure. Unlike vegetable oil, which can contain impurities such as lignin, NBC is homogeneous and free of natural pollutants. This makes it an ideal material for medical and cosmetic applications, where biocompatibility is essential.
Sustainable Production Process.
While Plant Nanocellulose requires chemical processes and high energy consumption, the production of Bacterial Nanocellulose (NBC) from bacteria is a more natural and environmentally friendly process. It does not require the use of harsh chemicals, which reduces its environmental footprint.
Application Versatility
Bacterial Nanocellulose (NBC) stands out for its versatility. It is used in high-end medical applications, such as wound dressings, tissue regeneration, and controlled drug release. In addition, it is perfect for cosmetic products such as facial masks and moisturizing serums. It is also gaining traction in food packaging due to its ability to absorb water and create active packaging.
Exceptional Strength and Flexibility
Bacterial Nanocellulose (NBC) offers a unique combination of strength, flexibility, and elasticity. This makes it best suited for a variety of applications, from tissue engineering to creating structural materials for various industries.
Conclusion
While Plant Nanocellulose has been a valuable biomaterial in various industrial applications, Bacterial Nanocellulose (NBC) offers clear advantages in terms of purity, sustainability, and versatility. Its greener production, exceptional mechanical properties and biocompatibility position it as the biomaterial of the future. At Nanocell Farms, we are proud to be leaders in the production of 100% natural bacterial nanocellulose in Colombia, and we work to bring this innovative material to international markets.
Bacterial Nanocellulose (NBC) is not only a more sustainable alternative, but also a more advanced solution for industries looking for greener, safer, and more effective materials. The future of materials is bacterial!
REFERENCES:
This information is provided by research in the field of plant nanocellulose and Bacterial Nanocellulose (NBC).
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