Microfibrillar cellulose derivatised by steric or electrostatic forces

摘要

A derivatised microfibrillar cellulose is derivatised to comprise substituents that provide electrostatic and/or steric functionality. The electrostatic functionality is provided by an anionic charge. The derivatised microfibrillar cellulose forms a gel in water at least one point in the concentration range of from 0.05 to 0.99wt%. The anionic change can be provided by carboxyl, sulphate, sulphonate, phosphonate or phosphate. The electrostatic functionality can be provided by both an anionic and cationic charge. The cellulose can be used in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, fertilizing or pesticidal compositions or products such as a wound dressing or in paper products.