Exploring novel applications of spinifex biomass
Nanocellulose is the next generation of renewable materials for the development of high-performance products. While nanocelluloses produced from different extraction methods share a common molecular backbone, their structure, properties, surface chemistry, cost, and practical uses can vary greatly. This project investigates novel applications of spinifex, an Australian native arid grass, nanocellulose in collaboration with our indigenous partner, Dugalunji Aboriginal Corporation (DAC) to further develop the spinifex industry in rural and remote northern Queensland. The vision of DAC and UQ is for Indigenous people to be at the forefront of the emergent spinifex nanocellulose industry, not only in harvesting and processing the fibres into nanocellulose-derived products, but also in the new materials science research and development around the Australian Australian native grass.
