| Formula / Notation | (C6H10O5)n |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 9004-34-6 |
| Molecular Weight | Variable (polymer) |
| Melting Point | Decomposes |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes >300 °C |
| Density | 1.50 g/cm³ |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Appearance | white fibrous solid or powder |
| Also Known As | cotton cellulose; plant fibre; dietary fibre; microcrystalline cellulose |
| Category | Polymers & Plastics |
What is Cellulose?
Cellulose is the most abundant organic polymer on Earth, serving as the primary structural component of plant cell walls. It is a linear polysaccharide consisting of D-glucose units linked by β-1,4-glycosidic bonds. The parallel arrangement of cellulose chains and extensive hydrogen bonding between chains produces a rigid crystalline microstructure that gives plant cell walls their mechanical strength. Humans and most animals cannot digest cellulose because they lack the enzyme cellulase.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: poly(1,4-β-D-glucopyranoside)
Other Names / Synonyms: cotton cellulose; plant fibre; dietary fibre; microcrystalline cellulose
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | Decomposes |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes >300 °C |
| Density | 1.50 g/cm³ |
| Molecular Weight | Variable (polymer) |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Appearance | white fibrous solid or powder |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Cellulose is the most abundant organic polymer on Earth, serving as the primary structural component of plant cell walls. It is a linear polysaccharide consisting of D-glucose units linked by β-1,4-glycosidic bonds. The parallel arrangement of cellulose chains and extensive hydrogen bonding between chains produces a rigid crystalline microstructure that gives plant cell walls their mechanical strength. Humans and most animals cannot digest cellulose because they lack the enzyme cellulase.
Paper and cardboard manufacture. Textile fibres (cotton, linen, rayon). Pharmaceutical excipient (microcrystalline cellulose). Food additive and dietary fibre. Production of cellophane and rayon. Cellulose derivatives (ethyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose).
Non-toxic, biodegradable, and naturally occurring. Cellulose dust is combustible and may cause respiratory irritation. Consult SDS for processed forms (e.g., cellulose powder, MCC).
The formula or notation for Cellulose is: (C6H10O5)n