Photoluminescent Window From Delignified Wood Immobilized With Nanocellulose‐Reinforced Crosslinked Alginate for Advanced Applications

ABSTRACT

Photoluminescent wood able to alter color upon exposure to UV light was produced. A composite comprising rare‐earth aluminate nanoparticles (RAN) as a photoluminescent agent and cellulose nanocrystal‐supported alginate (CNCA) as a hosting material was infiltrated into delignified hardwood (DLW), yielding transparent hardwood with photoluminescence characteristics. RAN is recognized for its excellent photostability and heat resistance. An optimal technique for generating translucent and photoluminescent hardwood entails the dispersion of RAN in cellulose nanocrystal‐reinforced alginate, ensuring the absence of agglomeration. Cellulose nanocrystals were synthesized from microcrystalline cellulose by acid hydrolysis, demonstrating diameters of 7–12 nm. Cellulose nanocrystals were used as a nanofiller and a dispersant to avert the agglomeration of RAN. Both photoluminescent analysis and colorimetric parameters indicated a green color under UV light and a colorless appearance under visible light. The morphological analysis of RAN showed sizes ranging from 35 to 120 nm. The luminescent hardwoods were analyzed using several spectroscopic and microscopic methods. When excited at 375 nm, the photoluminescent hardwood exhibited an emission readout at 517 nm. Increasing the RAN level resulted in enhanced water resistance and superior protection against UV radiation. The luminous hardwood exhibited quick and reversible activity to UV radiation without fatigue.