CD Laboratory for Advanced cellulose chemistry and analytics

The expansion of basic knowledge about cellulose chemistry and analytics is the main focus of research activities. Based on this, progress in cellulose research is realised with regard to new areas of application.

Due to current developments in the field of sustainability, natural resources such as cellulose are once again increasingly taking centre stage in scientific and industrial attention. This polymer is not only the most abundant raw material in terms of mass, but also the most economically significant.

The focus of the research work is on the characterisation and functionalisation of cellulose at the molecular level. To this end, the cellulose molecules, which form long linear molecular chains that in turn come together to form complex superstructures, are analysed and described in detail. Of particular interest here are the structure, ageing and nature of the surfaces. Building on this, the aim of the investigations is to deepen our understanding of the swelling capacity and the dissolution processes of celluloses. Dissolution is only possible with very few and very specialised solvents, such as ionic liquids. However, as these change the cellulose not only physically but also chemically, new approaches are being sought to track these processes at the molecular level.

Basic research in this area will also create the basis for new applications for cellulose. For example, highly functionalised celluloses are being developed that can combine their properties with those of special reagents. This will result in intelligent fibres and nonwovens with a slow release effect, for example, which will be used primarily in Medicine, cosmetics and hygiene. These release the active ingredients they contain in a controlled manner. This is achieved thanks to an anchor between the active ingredient and the cellulose, whereby the release of the substance is controlled with the help of a tuner. Insulating materials, ultra-light moulded bodies and (semi-)conductive materials will also emerge from the research activities.

Last but not least, the investigations will also serve to improve the properties of paper by using new sizing agents based on renewable raw materials. A more detailed understanding of the degradation and ageing of cellulose will subsequently contribute to the preservation of cellulose products and cultural artefacts. The lifespan of valuable historical documents in libraries, archives and graphic collections can be significantly extended thanks to the research work carried out here.