Recent progress in regenerated cellulose-based fibers from alkali/urea system via spinning process

Cellulose as the most abundant renewable polymer displays great potential to substitute the petroleum-derived synthetic polymers. However, cellulose is difficult to be melted or dissolved, which greatly restricts its development and utilization. Herein, the green alkali/urea aqueous system for cellulose dissolution is briefly summarized by illustrating the dissolving mechanism. The comparison of cellulose fibers from different solvent is presented. In addition, the recent achievements for the efficient and green preparation of regenerated cellulose fibers from alkali/urea system are also summarized. By investigating the effects of experimental conditions and technical parameters on the structure and performance of regenerated cellulose fibers, the improved fiber mechanical properties and the decreased production costs are achieved. Moreover, the preparation and application of cellulose-based functional fibers from alkali/urea system are also reviewed, together with the urgent challenges and future development perspectives, which provide the novel approach for the high value-added development and utilization of cellulose fibers.

Automated summary

This article briefly summarizes the dissolving mechanism of cellulose in the green alkali/urea aqueous system and compares cellulose fibers from different solvents. It also summarizes recent achievements in the efficient and green preparation of regenerated cellulose fibers from the alkali/urea system. By studying experimental conditions and technical parameters, improved mechanical properties of the fibers and decreased production costs have been achieved. Furthermore, the preparation and application of cellulose-based functional fibers from the alkali/urea system are reviewed, along with the urgent challenges and future development perspectives.