Abstract
A new efficient solvent for cellulose dissolution was developed based on the mixture of aqueous tetrabutylammonium hydroxide, TBAH(aq) and an organic co-solvent, dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). Clear cellulose solutions were readily obtained at mild conditions in a few minutes. The viscoeleastic properties of the dopes formed are found to be dependent on the cellulose content and TBAH(aq)/DMSO ratio. Additionally, stiff hydrogels are formed when adding β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) to the cellulose dopes. The formation of a host-guest complex between the β-CD and the tetrabutylammonium cations (TBA+), which presumably destabilizes the cellulose solution state triggering the hydrogel formation, is suggested as mechanism. The robust hydrogels formed have been characterized regarding their viscoelasticity, microscopic morphology and release properties. The kinetics and released amount of the TBA+ from the cellulose gel matrixes are found to be strongly dependent on the balance between average pore diameter, surface area and “free” volume of the hydrogels.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
