Cellulose acetate: Applications and characteristics
Cellulose acetate is an important cellulose ester obtained by chemical modification of cellulose as raw material. It has unique properties and is widely used in various fields.

1. Characteristics of cellulose acetate
1. ** Physical characteristics **
- Appearance is often white or yellowish and shiny. The texture is flexible and can be processed into a variety of forms, such as films, fibers, etc. Its density is moderate, and it varies according to the preparation process and the degree of acetate esterification. Generally speaking, it can meet the requirements of many products.
- High transparency, the film made is clear and translucent, and has significant advantages in the optical field. For example, in photographic film and other products, this characteristic ensures a clear image presentation.
2. ** Chemical properties **
- Good chemical stability. Under normal temperature and general chemical environment, it is not easy to react violently with common acids and bases, and only under specific strong acid and alkali and high temperature conditions will reactions such as hydrolysis occur. This allows cellulose acetate to adapt to a variety of chemical environments, and can effectively protect packaged items when used in packaging and other fields.
- Excellent resistance to organic solvents. Most organic solvents are difficult to dissolve or erode, which lays the foundation for its application in coatings, inks and other industries, ensuring that the cellulose acetate composition is stable during storage and use.

II. Application of cellulose acetate
1. ** Textile field **
- Cellulose acetate fiber is a commonly used raw material in the textile industry. Its fabric feels soft, has good drape, is comfortable to wear, and has the reputation of "rayon". Blended with natural fibers, it can improve the stiffness and wrinkle resistance of the fabric. If blended with cotton fibers, it not only retains the moisture absorption of cotton, but also enhances the wrinkle resistance of the fabric. It is widely used in shirts, dresses and other clothing production.
2. ** Packaging field **
- It is widely used to make packaging films. Because of its high transparency, it can clearly display the contents and attract the attention of consumers. And it has a certain barrier property, which can prevent moisture and oxygen, and prolong the shelf life of food and medicine. Such as candy packaging, pharmaceutical blister packaging, etc., are common cellulose acetate packaging films.
3. ** Optical field **
- It is an important material for manufacturing optical lenses. With high transparency and good optical properties, it can effectively reduce light scattering and refraction and improve imaging clarity. And it is relatively light in weight, more comfortable to wear, and is widely used in the manufacture of ophthalmic lenses, especially in high-end optical lenses.
4. ** Paint and ink field **
- Cellulose acetate is used in coatings and inks to improve its drying speed and film-forming performance. The formed paint film is hard, wear-resistant, and has a good gloss. In furniture paint, automotive paint and other fields, it can give the product a beautiful appearance and excellent protective performance. In ink, it can improve its transfer and adhesion, making the printing pattern clear and firm.