Clean process for dissolving wood cellulose for the production of textile yarn

This PhD thesis investigates periodate–chlorite oxidation as a strategy to modify cellulose for dissolution and regeneration into coherent fibers. By introducing aldehyde and carboxylic acid groups, the oxidation reduces supramolecular cohesion while retaining sufficient molecular weight for fiber formation. The work focuses on optimizing oxidation conditions and examining their effects on functional group formation, depolymerization, dissolution behavior, and the properties of regenerated fibers.
 

Dissolution–regeneration experiments reveal a narrow processing window, requiring a careful balance between oxidation severity and processing conditions to achieve complete dissolution in alkaline media and produce high-quality fibers. Advanced characterization techniques are used to study the structure and reactivity of oxidized cellulose, highlighting the complexity of carbonyl functionalities.
 

Overall, this research demonstrates the potential of periodate–chlorite oxidation as a more sustainable route for regenerated cellulose fiber production, with prospects for future industrial applications.