Physical Chemistry of Solvation/Association in the Algal Cellulose/Nanocellulose–DMAA/LiCl System

Abstract

A rheological study of solvation of algal cellulose and nanocellulose in dimethylacetamide with a lithium chloride addition as one of priority direct solvents has been performed. It was established that algal cellulose in solution can form spatial structures—cationic complexes with dimethylacetamide stabilized by chlorine anions. The activation energy of this process is 29.4–42.8 kJ/mol. The concentration dependence of viscosity indicates the presence of association interactions, which are most pronounced at a cellulose/nanocellulose concentration of >1.5% in solution. It was determined by rotational viscometry that 2.0% algal cellulose/nanocellulose solutions have pseudoplastic properties. The solutions are promising raw materials for the production of nonwoven materials and hydro/aerogels for biomedical use.