Cellulose is the most common bio-based polymer in the biosphere. Only a fraction of this raw material could replace fossil resources based polymers by renewable, carbon-neutral materials. Cellulose is also a widespread raw material in the Nordic countries and Estonia. Through chemical modification, derivatives have the potential to revitalize cellulose to replace fossil-based plastics in various sectors of the economy, such as the packaging industry and construction, as well as in high-tech fields such as filtration or energy storage. This course introduces promising sources and preparation methods of cellulose in terms of the green economy. Modification of cellulose takes place mostly in dissolved form, so an important part of the course is the introduction of traditional as well as modern solvent systems. The course provides an overview of a wide range of cellulose derivatives, with a focus on the most common esters and ethers. The potential applications of the derivatives are explained through their physical and chemical properties. Methods for processing cellulose derivatives in the plastics and textile industries are introduced. The main goal of the course is to provide knowledge for the design and synthesis of future cellulose derivatives with minimal environmental impact in all aspects of the production process.
Current e-course supports „Derivatives of Cellulose“ - EKP0360
Happy learning!
Prof. Andres Krumme
Tel. +372 620 2907
- Õpetaja/Teacher: Andres Krumme
- Õpetaja/Teacher: Nutan Bharat Savale
- Õpetaja/Teacher: Taavi Vaikjärv