Cellulose

This book explores cellulose, a natural, renewable and biodegradable biopolymer essential to many industrial applications. It discusses its chemical structure, based on anhydroglucopyranose units, and its unique properties, such as the formation of hydrogen bonds, which give cellulose great stability. The book also describes the methods used to extract cellulose, which vary according to whether the chemical treatment is acidic or basic. Due to its low solubility, dissolving cellulose remains a challenge, requiring the use of specific solvents. Chemical modification of cellulose by esterification and etherification enables the creation of derivatives such as cellulose acetate, used in a variety of industries, including packaging, energy and biomedical applications. Finally, the book looks at the challenges of using cellulose and the innovations underway, such as new solvents and modification processes to improve its properties and extend its applications.