—
Cellulose
Glass Transition (Tg)
— (decomposes)
Melting Point (Tm)
— (decomposes)
Density
1.50 g/cm³
CAS Number
9004-34-6
Recycling Code
None
Category
Natural
Repeat Unit
–[β-1,4-glucose]ₙ–
The repeating unit is the smallest structural fragment whose repetition builds the whole chain. Subscripts show the relative share of each unit in copolymers.
Key Properties
The most abundant organic polymer on Earth; extensive inter- and intra-chain hydrogen bonding prevents melting and limits solubility; must be derivatised or dissolved in special solvents.
Applications
Paper, cotton fibre, nanocellulose reinforcement, viscose precursor.