Fundamental aspects of the non-covalent modification of cellulose via polymer adsorption

The increasing need for new material applications based on cellulose demands increased functional diversity and thus new functionalisation/modification approaches. The non-covalent modification of cellulose fibres via the adsorption of functional polymers has emerged as a promising route for tailoring the properties of material. This review focuses on fundamental aspects of polymer adsorption on cellulose surfaces, where the adsorption of polyelectrolytes and non-polyelectrolytes are treated separately. Adsorption studies on model surfaces as well as cellulose macro-fibres are reviewed. A correlation of the adsorption findings with the Scheutjens-Fleer polymer adsorption theory is provided, allowing the fundamentals behind the polymer adsorption phenomenon and its context in utilization of cellulose fibres to be understood.

Automated summary

This review article discusses the non-covalent modification of cellulose fibers through the adsorption of functional polymers, focusing on fundamental aspects of polymer adsorption on cellulose surfaces. The correlation of adsorption findings with the Scheutjens-Fleer polymer adsorption theory provides insight into the phenomenon and its context in utilizing cellulose fibers. Studies on model surfaces and cellulose macro-fibers are reviewed to understand the potential of using this approach for tailored material properties.