Cellulose nanocrystals were successfully extracted by hydrolysis
from raw cotton linter. The linter nanocrystals have an aspect
ratio of 19, crystallinity of 91%, and high hydrophilicity. Their
dimensions can be accurately measured by TEM, but light scattering
techniques can also be employed for estimating the dimensions.
Extraction of nanocellulose from raw cotton linter does not require
pulping before the acidic hydrolysis.