Labeling Strategies for Cellulosic Materials

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Presenter: Professor Douglas Fox, Professor American University

Summary: Identifying and quantifying cellulose in dilute solutions or in a complex matrix can be challenging. The use of fluorescent or isotopic carbon labels can be very useful. The attachment chemistries, label characteristics, stability, and limit of quantification varies widely. In many cases, the available instruments will dictate which label would be most useful. Choice of labeling also depends on whether the cellulose material contains surface lignin, is a nano- or micro-material, or has surface charges, such as sulfate half-esters. Strategies for choosing the appropriate label for various forms of cellulose and a number of applications, including environmental and health safety, food coatings, composites, and nonaqueous solvents will be discussed.