Synthesis and Flocculation Behavior of Cationic Cellulose Prepared in a NaOH/Urea Aqueous Solution

Abstract Water soluble cationic cellulose was synthesized by the reaction between microcrystalline cellulose and 2,3‐epoxypropyltrimethylammonium chloride in a NaOH/urea aqueous solution. The characterization of the cationic cellulose was performed by NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and viscosity analysis. The effects of reaction time and molar ratio of the reagents on the structure of the products were also investigated, and it was found that the degree of substitution (DS) of the cationic cellulose obtained depended on both the ratio of the 2,3‐epoxypropyltrimethylammonium chloride to cellulose and the reaction time. The flocculation capacity of the cationic cellulose was determined with 0.25 wt % kaolin suspension using the standard jar test. Encouraging results were found and cationic cellulose may be applicable for use as a novel flocculant in wastewater treatment.