The Reactions of Cellulose with Amic Acids and Anhydride /Ammonia

Abstract

Reported is the generality of two new, recently reported reactions for the esterification of cellulosic fabrics using amic acids or anhydride/ammonia in aqueous solution. A study is made of amic acid structure and extent of formation of the cellulose half-acid ester, the main reaction product. The formation of crosslinked cellulose, a minor product, is also dis cussed. A series of amic acids, including the isomer pair, maleamic and fumaramic acids, as well as several anhydrides (with ammonia) were reacted with cellulosic fabrics. The results are interpreted to support a hypothesis which requires a unique combination of structural and environmental features for reaction to occur. Effects of pH, catalyst, and pres ence of moisture on extent of reaction were also studied. Resistance to acid and basic hydrolysis as well as the relative strength retention of treated fabric was determined. Comment is made on the potential utility of the modified fabrics.