Chemistry and structure of cellulosic fibres as reinforcements in natural fibre composites

Cellulose fibres, derivatives and regenerated compositions have traditionally been applied in many materials for structural, decorative and disposable products. Cellulose structure-property-performance begins with glucose covalent bonding, and properties extend to supramolecular assemblies. Chirality dependent stereochemistry distinguishes cellulose from synthetic polymers. Cellulose fibre structure, separation and purification from plant materials are described. Processing dependent properties, enhanced performance, shaping into regenerated fibres, sheets or nano-fibres and crystals are reviewed. Cellulose chemistry extends into crystallinity, polymorphism, solubility and environmental dependent characteristics. Cellulose, as with all biopolymers, exhibits typical polymer characteristics expected from theory; however, its unique structural complexity gives cellulose an additional property set. Strongly hydrogen-bonding solvents including ionic liquids are adopted for processing. New cellulose technologies contribute value-added materials derived from trees and crops, with emphasis on nanostructured celluloses.