Cationic and anionic polyelectrolyte complexes of xylan and chitosan. Interaction with lignocellulosic surfaces

•Cationic and anionic complexes form gel-like structures.•High mass of complex is adsorbed on cellulose nanofibrils model surfaces.•Natural complexes containing xylan and chitosan enhance paper strength properties.

Cationic (CatPECs) and anionic (AnPECs) polyelectrolyte complexes from xylan and chitosan were formed, characterized and adsorbed onto unbleached fibers for improving the papermaking properties. They were prepared at a level of 30% of neutralization charge ratio by modifying the order of addition of polyelectrolytes and the ionic strength (0.01 N and 0.1 N NaCl). The charge density, colloidal stability and particle size of polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) was measured using polyelectrolyte titration method, Turbiscan and Zetasizer Nano equipments, respectively. All the complexes were stable even after seven days from PEC formation. DRIFT spectra of complexes were also analyzed. The adsorption behavior of them onto cellulose nanofibrils model surfaces was studied using quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring, and surface plasmon resonance. It was found that the PEC layers were viscoelastic and highly hydrated. Finally, it is shown that the adsorbed PECs onto cellulosic fibers markedly improved the tensile and crushing strengths of paper.