Product name: Cellulose acetate
English alias: Acetic acid cellulose ester; CA; Cellulose diacetate
CAS: 9004-35-7
Molecular formula: [C6H7O2(OOCCH3)3]n
Appearance: White or off-white granular powder or flakes
Package: 25kg/bag or drum
What is Cellulose acetate?
Cellulose acetate is a thermoplastic polymer derived from natural cellulose through esterification with acetic acid or acetic anhydride. As a biobased and biodegradable material, it is widely used in plastics, textiles, film, coatings, and biomedical applications. Due to its excellent transparency, toughness, and resistance to UV and chemicals, it serves as an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic polymers.
The molecular structure of cellulose acetate can vary in acetyl content (monoacetate, diacetate, triacetate), affecting its solubility and thermal properties. It typically appears as white powder, granules, or flakes, with good solubility in organic solvents such as acetone.
COA:
Number | Item | Specification | Result |
1 | Appearance | White or off-white | White powder |
2 | Acetyl content (%) | 38.0–40.0 | 39.2 |
3 | Viscosity (solution in acetone) | 0.1–0.5 Pa·s | 0.36 Pa·s |
4 | Ash content (%) | ≤0.1 | 0.05 |
5 | Moisture (%) | ≤1.5 | 0.9 |
6 | pH (10% solution) | 6.0–8.0 | 7.1 |
| Conclusion |
| PASS |
Application:
1 Cellulose acetate used in cigarette filter rods as tow due to its biodegradability and low toxicity
2 Widely applied in coating formulations, especially nail polish and printing inks
3Cellulose acetate employed in thermoplastics manufacturing for films, molded goods, and spectacle frames
4 Cellulose acetate used as membrane material in water purification, ultrafiltration, and hemodialysis
5 Cellulose acetate Serves as a binder in photographic films and magnetic tape
6 Cellulose acetate applied in biomedical fields, such as drug delivery systems and wound dressings
7 Excellent material for eco-friendly packaging and biodegradable plastics
How it's made
Cellulose from plant sources is treated with acetic acid or acetic anhydride.
This chemical process, known as acetylation, modifies the cellulose structure.
The degree of substitution of hydroxyl groups by acetate groups determines the material's final properties.
Safety profile:
Cellulose acetate is considered
non-toxic, non-irritating, and
biodegradable. It is safe for use in
consumer products, medical devices, and packaging. When processing at high temperatures, it should be handled in ventilated environments to avoid thermal decomposition products.
Storage requirements:
Store in
dry and cool conditionsAvoid contact with
moisture and direct sunlightRelative humidity should be kept below
50%Keep container
tightly sealed when not in use
Transport & Packaging:
Cellulose acetate is supplied in
25 kg paper bags, kraft bags with PE liners, or fiber drumsStore and transport in a
dry, ventilated, and weather-protected areaCustomized packaging available upon request
