A multitechnique approach to assess the effect of ball milling on cellulose

► We present the effect induced by a ball milling process on cellulose. ► The cellulose amorphization and the mean size reduction of the crystallite domains were quantified. ► Ball milled cellulose shows increased water absorption and reduced thermal stability. ► The disappearance of the fibrous structure is evidenced as a consequence of the ball milling process.