Cellulose as a polymer

Cellulose is a polysaccharide found in the cell walls of plants. It consists of long chains of beta-D-glucose molecules linked by 1-4 glycosidic bonds which were formed by condensation polymerisation. These glycosidic linkages encourage the polymer chains to adopt a linear structure. The celluose molecule consists of a number of these polymer chains joined together by hydrogen bonds Cotton is an excellent source of cellulose . Each cotton fibre is just a single cell. The cell …

…promote the capacity of the fabric to repel water. This is ideal for laboratory coats for those working in industry because lyocell gives better protection against chemical spills. Lyocell has a high tear resistance and breathability and so it is commonly used for filter papers, banknotes and outdoor clothing. However Tencel, the name lyocell is marketed under, is still very expensive so it has yet to make a significant impact on the outdoor clothing market.