Multiphase materials with lignin: 5. Effect of lignin atructure on hydroxypropyl cellulose blend morphology

Abstract

The incremental elimination of hydroxy functionality in an organosolv lignin by ethylation or acetylation dramatically influenced the state of miscibility and resulting morphology of blends prepared with hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC). A maximum level of interation between the blend components, as determined from melting point depression, occurred where 23-40% of the hydroxy groups were substituted. Above this level of modification, the interaction parameter decreased reapidly. Complete incompatibility occured at a 90% degree of substitution with acetoxy functionality. Essentially three distinct phase morphologies could be detected in these materials. At the lowest levels of interaction, the morphology resulted from lignin domain formation and hydroxypropyl cellulose liquid crystal mesophase separation.

Citation

Rials, Timothy G.; Glasser, Wolfgang G. 1990. Multiphase materials with lignin: 5. Effect of lignin atructure on hydroxypropyl cellulose blend morphology. Polymer 31:1333-1338