selluloosasetaatti

Selluloosasetaatti, often referred to as cellulose acetate, is a thermoplastic polymer derived from cellulose. Cellulose, a natural polymer found in plants, is treated with acetic anhydride and acetic acid to create cellulose acetate. This process modifies the hydroxyl groups on the cellulose chains, altering its properties.

The resulting material is a versatile plastic with a range of applications. It is known for its transparency, toughness, and relatively low cost of production. Cellulose acetate is often used in the manufacturing of textiles, where it is spun into fibers known as acetate rayon. These fibers are used in clothing, upholstery, and draperies due to their silky feel and lustrous appearance.

Beyond textiles, cellulose acetate finds use in photographic film, formerly a dominant application before the advent of digital photography. It is also employed in eyeglass frames, cigarette filters, and various molded plastic products. Its biodegradability, compared to many petroleum-based plastics, is an increasingly recognized advantage. The specific properties of cellulose acetate can be further modified through different degrees of acetylation, leading to a spectrum of materials suitable for diverse industrial needs.