Direct production of cellulose laurate by mechanical activation-strengthened solid phase synthesis

► Mechanical activation and esterification were combined in the same equipment. ► No organic co-reagents and solvents were used for producing cellulose laurate. ► Mechanical activation destroyed the steric effect of long chain fatty acid. ► Mechanical activation increased the reactivity of hydroxyl groups in cellulose. ► We report a simple, efficient and green method for the synthesis of cellulose esters.