Cellulose Modification with Maleic Anhydride

Cellulose modification is a challenge due to molecules characteristics – equatorial conformation, hydrogen bonds both withing molecule and among neighboring molecules etc. Esterification of cellulose hydroxyl groups (-OH) with dicarboxylic compounds is challenging. In presented study simple modification with maleic anhydride is performed in an anhydrous environment. Scanning electron microscopy reveals clean fibers of cellulose-maleic anhydride derivatives. FTIR proves unique peak at 1735cm -1 that corresponds to ester carbonyl groups. Titration of carboxylic (-COOH) groups solidifies that one part of anhydride has bonded with cellulose and other carboxylic groups is accessible for further development.