Novel bio-antifelting agent based on waterborne polyurethane and cellulose nanocrystals

► A novel cellulose nanocomposites is proposed for antifelting finish. ► The nanocrystal films were applied onto surfaces of wools by a pad-dry-cure process. ► Adding 1% cellulose nanocrystals can decrease 44% use of antifelting agent. ► Cellulose nanocrystals can react with the groups of wool. ► The tensile strength of the fabric was increased by 14.95%.