Investigation of Solutions of Cellulose

This review deals with studies of cellulose solutions. Various solvents for cellulose are characterised in detail. On the basis of the experimental results it is concluded that stable compounds are formed as a results of the reaction of cellulose with complex-containing solvents. The part played by complexes and alkalis present in the solvent in the dissolution of the cellulose is shown. Various methods of fractionation and the principal relations between the characteristic viscosity and molecular weight of cellulose in various solvents are considered. In the section dealing with the dimensions and form of the cellulose macromolecules it is shown that cellulose is of much greater dimensions than flexible synthetic polymers, owing to the greater size of the monomeric unit, the considerable extension of the macromolecules in the solution, and the reaction of cellulose with the solvent. The bibliography includes 157 references.