Cellulose acetate

Cellulose Acetate is a type of plastic that is derived from cellulose. It is commonly used in the production of photographic film, textiles, and coatings.

History

Cellulose acetate was first prepared in 1865 by Paul Schützenberger, a French chemist. However, it was not until the early 20th century that it began to be used commercially. The first major use of cellulose acetate was in the production of safety film for motion pictures.

Production

The production of cellulose acetate involves the acetylation of cellulose, a process that involves the replacement of hydroxyl groups in the cellulose molecule with acetyl groups. This is typically achieved by reacting cellulose with acetic anhydride in the presence of a catalyst such as sulfuric acid.

Properties

Cellulose acetate is a thermoplastic, meaning it can be melted and reshaped without undergoing a chemical reaction. It is also biodegradable, a property that distinguishes it from many other types of plastic. Other notable properties of cellulose acetate include its transparency, its high strength and stiffness, and its resistance to impact and abrasion.

Applications

Cellulose acetate is used in a wide range of applications. In addition to its use in photographic film, it is also used in the production of spectacles, cigarette filters, and textiles. It is also used as a coating for paper and cardboard, and as a component in some adhesives.

Environmental Impact

While cellulose acetate is biodegradable, it can still contribute to environmental pollution if not disposed of properly. This is particularly the case with cigarette filters, which are often discarded improperly and can take many years to degrade.

See Also

• Cellulose
• Plastic
• Biodegradable plastic