nitrocelluloosa

Nitrocellulose, or cellulose nitrate, is a nitrate ester derivative of cellulose produced by the nitration of cellulose. The material encompasses a family of polymers whose properties depend on the degree of nitration and molecular weight. Lower nitrate content yields flexible coatings, while higher content yields brittle, high-energy materials used in propellants. Nitrocellulose forms viscous solutions in organic solvents and can be cast, sprayed, drawn into fibers, or molded. In energetic formulations it is referred to as guncotton; in coatings it is used as a film-forming binder.

Discovered in 1846 by Christian Schönbein, nitrocellulose was investigated as a substitute for guncotton and later found widespread use in coatings and propellants. It became prominent as smokeless powder in the late 19th century, eventually replacing many earlier propellants. In coatings, plasticizers and stabilizers tailor hardness and flexibility. Nitrocellulose is used in nail polishes, wood finishes, inks, and certain lacquers; it also served as a film base in early cinema (nitrofilm) before safety films emerged.

Properties and safety: Nitrocellulose is thermoplastic and forms tough, glossy films; its solubility depends on the solvent system. The material can be highly flammable, and finely divided or dry nitrocellulose can be explosive. Handling requires avoiding heat, sparks, and friction and storing under appropriate conditions away from incompatible materials. The energetic potential of certain grades has driven strict regulatory controls in production, handling, and disposal.

See also: nitrocellulose film, collodion, guncotton, smokeless powder, nitro coatings.