This project will investigate how water diffuses and interacts within lignocellulosic and nanocellulose-based materials. Understanding cellulose–water interactions is essential both for biological systems and for the development of next-generation sustainable materials. The work will focus on characterising water transport mechanisms and how nanoscale structure influences diffusive behaviour in cellulose-rich environments.
Neutron scattering techniques—together with complementary methods such as pulsed-field gradient NMR and coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations—will be used to probe water mobility, hydration structure, and transport pathways. Neutrons are particularly valuable in this context due to their sensitivity to hydrogen and their ability to access relevant time and length scales for diffusion.
By clarifying how water dynamics are modified within cellulosic networks, the project aims to support the tailored design of nanocellulose materials for applications in areas such as drug delivery, filtration, and advanced bio-based technologies.