Cellulose acetate is an ester compound obtained by the chemical reaction between cellulose and acetic anhydride. Its chemical structure is unique, and some hydroxyl groups of cellulose are replaced by acetyl groups.

Cellulose is a polysaccharide composed of many glucose units connected by β-1,4-glycosidic bonds. During the formation of cellulose acetate, these hydroxyl groups are acetylated with acetic anhydride.

From the perspective of chemical structure, the number and distribution of acetyl groups in cellulose acetate molecules have a great influence on its properties. The solubility, mechanical properties, and thermal stability of cellulose acetate vary depending on the content of acetyl groups.

Cellulose acetate with high acetyl content is often more soluble and soluble in a variety of organic solvents, such as acetone, etc. This property makes it widely used in coatings, fiber manufacturing and other fields. In fiber manufacturing, it can spin fibers with excellent texture, which have the advantages of good gloss and soft feel.

And those with low acetyl content may have relatively better mechanical properties and can be used in some occasions with high strength requirements. Its chemical structure endows it with diverse characteristics, thus showing important value in many aspects such as industry and daily life.