FOREWORDThis monograph is concerned with systematization of the infrared spectra of an important natural polymer, cellulose, and its derivatives.The infrared spectra of the main classes of cellulose derivatives are described and interpreted and those of such model compounds as mono-, di-, and trisaccharides are considered. Considerable attention is given to problems of technique in obtaining infrared spectra of fibrous cellulose materials, and to the analytical possibilities of infrared spectroscopy in studies of the properties of cellulose and its derivatives.The book will be of use to scientific and plant workers interested in the study and treatment of cellulose, compounds related to cellulose (carbohydrates and polycarbohydrates), and other polymers.