Cellulose nanocrystals from forest residues: An integrated techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are renewable, high-value nanomaterials with broad industrial applications. Based on laboratory-scale experimental data, this study demonstrates the feasibility of utilizing sugar maple forest residues for 10 metric tons per day (MTPD) production of CNC through an integrated techno-economic analysis (TEA) and life cycle assessment (LCA). The minimum selling price (MSP) of CNC was estimated at $16.03/kg, with a global warming (GW) impact of 28.60 kg CO₂ eq/kg CNC. Sensitivity analysis identified CNC yield and pretreatment solids loading as key drivers for the economic and environmental performance of the process. Monte Carlo simulations yielded 90% MSP confidence interval of $13.33–19.23/kg, while key impact categories including GW, marine eutrophication, smog formation, and ozone depletion showed low variability, indicating model robustness. The environmental risk assessment revealed that forest residues offer a sustainable valorization pathway with the process accompanied by risks tied to chemical usage and waste management.