Degradation of cellulose - mechanisms and applications

Abstract

After a general survey of modes and mechanisms or cellulose degradation by input of energy or by chemical agents, experimental results on thermal, thermohydrolytic and hydrolytic degradation are presented, centering on the influence of cellulose physical structure on rate and yield in these processes. In this connection, homogeneous and heterogeneous thermal chain degradation is compared, and the influence of different structural parameters on acid and on enzymatic hydrolysis is considered. Finally, some current and future applications of cellulose degradation processes are discussed, especially with respect to cellulosic waste utilization. © 1984 IUPAC