Thermoplastic cellulose acetate and cellulose acetate compounds prepared by reactive processing

Novel families of thermoplastic polysaccharides such as cellulose-2,5-acetate were produced by means of reactive processing technology that grafted cyclic lactones simultaneously onto polysaccharide, hydroxyfunctional plasticizer, and optionally also onto hydroxyfunctional fillers. Organosolv lignin, cellulose, starch, and chitin were added to effect reinforcement of the polymer matrix. Mechanical and thermal properties depended upon molecular architecture of the components and process parameters such as temperature, feed ratios, and screw speed. Such blends and composites utilize renewable resources and are of interest in waste disposal via biodegradation. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 64: 213–242, 1997