Next-Gen Cellulose Nanofibers from Cellulose Diacetate

Abdushkur  Sarymsakov; Nurbek  Ashurov; Akobirkhon  Shukurov; Zilola  Nazarova

Abdushkur Sarymsakov Institute of Polymer Chemistry and Physics, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Nurbek Ashurov Institute of Polymer Chemistry and Physics, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Akobirkhon Shukurov Institute of Polymer Chemistry and Physics, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Zilola Nazarova Institute of Polymer Chemistry and Physics, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Keywords: Electrospinning, Nanofibers, Cellulose Diacetate, Cellulose II, IR Spectroscopy

Abstract

This study explores the formation of cellulose nanofibers from cellulose diacetate (CDA) using electrospinning with acetone-water solvents in ratios of 95:5, 92.5:7.5, and 90:10. By employing saponification in an aqueous potassium hydroxide solution, cellulose II nanofibers were successfully obtained from CDA nanofibers. Comparative analyses using IR spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction revealed distinct properties of CDA and cellulose II nanofibers. The electrospinning process required a solvent with volatility similar to water, leading to the selection of acetone-water mixtures. Electrospinning was conducted under specific conditions: voltage 22–25 kV, flow rate 10-15 µl/min, temperature 25–40°C, and a 10-15 cm electrode distance. Morphological characteristics were examined via SEM, while IR-Fourier spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction provided structural insights. Results indicated that acetone solutions with 5-10% water were optimal for producing CDA nanofibers. The study highlights the potential practical applications of cellulose II nanofibrous nonwovens in various fields, filling a knowledge gap in the efficient production of cellulose nanofibers from CDA.

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