Modification of the surface characteristics of cotton by the introduction of anionic groups,and the mechanism of ion binding

The introduction of carboxymethyl, phosphate and sulfate groups into cotton cellulose considerably modifies the capacity of the cellulose to bind cationic systems. The ion-binding characteristics of these anionic derivatives have been quantitatively studied using the cationic dye methylene blue. Diffuse reflectance spectral measurements demonstrate that two types of sulfated and phosphorylated celluloses can be produced, which differ considerably in the interaction of their anionic groups with the dye. Anionic systems are, in contrast, repelled by the anionic substituents. In this way the resistance of the cotton cellulose to wet soiling can be considerably increased. The mechanism of ion binding to anionic celluloses has been examined and the information utilized to predict methods of modifying the surface characteristics of cotton cellulosee. One of eight papers being published from the Symposium “Surface Active Agents in the Textile Industry, presented at the AOCS Meeting, New Orleans, April 1970.