Recrystallization of amorphous cellulose

Abstract Recrystallization of amorphous cellulose prepared by saponification of cellulose triacetate in an non‐aqueous medium was found to occur only at very high relative humidities, i.e., near 100%. At lower relative humidities the amount of recrystallization occurring was slight though significant. Correspondingly, the accessibility decreased from 90% (for amorphous cellulose) to a minimum of 79%, the same as that for cellulose II. The mechanism of recrystallization is discussed in terms of the surface tension, plasticizing action, and the hydrogen bonding ability of the solvent used for bringing about the recrystallization.