Crystallization of Amorphous Cellulose

Abstract

Recrystallization behavior of the hydrolysates of native and thrice mercerized cotton, ball-milled to yield samples of different amorphity, was studied using x-ray diffraction. For crystallization of amorphous cellulose into cellulose I lattice, the presence of cellulose I nuclei seems to be a prerequisite. In a partially ball-milled cellulose I . sample, crystallization into cellulose II does not start until the amorphous content is as high as 75% or more. Results are discussed on the basis of the current ideas of the fine structure of fibers.