Electron spin resonance study of soluble copper(II)–cellulose complexes
Abstract
The dissolution of cellulose in CuII–amine solvents, and the subsequent gelation of these solutions with concentrated NaOH solution, have been studied with ESR and optical absorption spectroscopies. A CuII–cellulose complex has been characterised in homogeneous CuII–cellulose gels. This species is similar to that formed when CuII is adsorbed on fibrous cellulose under alkaline conditions. A second complex is postulated, formed on initial dissolution of cellulose in CuII–amine solvents, prior to complete gelation with base.