celulóza

Cellulose is an organic compound with the formula (C6H10O5)n, a polysaccharide consisting of a linear chain of several hundred to many thousands of β(1→4) linked D-glucose units. It is the structural component of the primary cell wall of green plants, many forms of algae, and the oomycetes. Some species of bacteria secrete it to form biofilms. Cellulose is the most abundant organic polymer on Earth.

The cellulose content of cotton fiber is approximately 90%, while wood pulp contains about 40-50%. Cellulose is not digestible by humans and many other animals due to the lack of an enzyme capable of hydrolyzing the β(1→4) linkages. However, ruminants and some termites can digest cellulose with the help of symbiotic microorganisms.

Commercially, cellulose is used in the production of paperboard and paper products, as well as in textiles and clothing. Cellulose derivatives such as cellophane, celluloid, and rayon are also important materials. Additionally, cellulose is used as a food additive (insoluble dietary fiber) and in the pharmaceutical industry as an excipient in tablets.

Cellulose is a key component in biofuel production and has potential applications in biodegradable plastics and other sustainable materials, making it important in the development of environmentally friendly products.