The use of Weissler method for scale-up a Kraft pulp oxidation by TEMPO-mediated system from a batch mode to a continuous flow-through sonoreactor

The efficiency of cellulose oxidation mediated by the 4-acetamido-TEMPO radical under ultrasonic cavitation was investigated using two ultrasonic systems: a batch lab scale ultrasonic bath with a glass reactor and a semi-continuous flow-through sonoreactor. The main objective was to explore the possibility of scaling up the production of oxidized cellulose under ultrasound, from a lab scale process to a pilot plant process, which served as a precursor for producing nanofibrils cellulose. It was found that under acoustic cavitation, the efficiency of TEMPO-mediation oxidation of native cellulose was significantly improved, particularly in the flow-through sonoreactor. In comparison with the glass reactor, the flow-through sonoreactor reduce the applied energy by 88% while increasing 7.8 times the production rate of radicals. These results enable a possibility of producing oxidized fibers for industrial applications.