Experimental Induction of Altered Nonmicrofibrillar Cellulose

Abstract

Cellulose produced by Acetobacter xylinum was experimentally modified during its biosynthesis. In the presence of fluorescent brightening agents, such as Calcofluor White M2R or Tinopal LPW, nonmicrofibrillar sheets of cellulose were synthesized by the bacteria. These sheets could then be converted to fibrils by washing with distilled water. Possible mechanisms for these modifications of cellulose assembly are disscussed.