Plasticization of Fibrous Cellulose Acetate: Part I – Synthesis and Characterization

Abstract

Synthesis and characterization of fibrous cellulose triacetate, CTA, are reported using an acetic acid/anhydride/perchloric acid toluene catalyzed route. The fibrous product exhibits a high degree of nano-crystallinity. An optimum concentration of the reactants for substitution and minimization of fiber degradation was studied. Chain degradation was promoted by the acetylium ion and led to a loss of fibrous structure. Heterogeneity of the material was studied by powder X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, and solid-state 13 C nuclear magnetic resonance. The structure formed if directly influenced by the original nano structure in the cellulose fiber.