Novel cellulose esterification for production of cellulose triacetate from cellulose flour.

Cellulosic fibers from cotton fibers were acetylated by heterogeneous reactions with citric acid as a swelling agent for the fibers as well as co-oxidizing agent, concentrated H2SO4 as a catalyst, and acetic anhydride. The resultant cellulose triacetate (CTA) yield was found to be 80%. The solubility test for the CTA's showed a clear solubility in chloroform, as well as the mixture of chloroform and methanol (9:1v/v) and vice versa for acetone. The degree of substitution of the CTA was identical to that for ordinary schemes and was confirmed by the NMR study.
Environmental Impact: Using citric acid instead of glacial acetic acid is an eco-friendly method due to the health hazards related to acetic acid. Technical Impact: Using citric acid give cellulose triacetate with high yield and quality. Economic Impact: Lower cost and more profit. Concerning prior art, Cellulosic fibers are acetylated by heterogeneous reactions with glacial acetic acid, concentrated H2SO4, and acetic anhydride. Theas chemical reagents are the most common one in the field of cellulose commercially all over the world.
The potential application of CTA is filtrations for gases and vapors, cleaning oil spills and industrial wastewater. Also, in plastic, metal, food, and textile industries. It has using with polyester to create smooth and shiny tracksuits. Also, it is used to manufacture polarizer films for LCD’s, overhead projector transparencies and photographic film.