Cellulose Biosynthesis And Structure

The monograph is written for specialists in plant physiology and biochemistry, structural chemistry of polymers, and for specialists in agriculture and in the paper und pulp industry. It is an indispensable source of information.

Plant cell walls are composed of complex carbohydrates, proteins, phenolic compounds, and inorganic ions, all of which play functional roles. Cellulose (1,4-fO-glucan) and callose (1,3-fO-glucan) are synthesized in the plasma membrane, while other polysaccharides are synthesized in the Golgi. Plant cell growth occurs with the loosening of the walls, which may be caused by several enzymatic actions. Plant development is related to the morphological changes of cells and tissue, which is caused by structural changes of the walls."

This book is an up-to-date treatise on the most advanced and provocative research into the biosynthesis, structure, and applications of Nature’s most abundant macromolecule and renewable resource, cellulose. Molecular, biochemical, and evolutionary aspects of cellulose biosynthesis are reviewed in a variety of living organisms. First hand information from the leading researchers distinguishes this work from other books on cellulose.

This book summarizes recent progress in cellulose chemistry. The last 10 years have witnessed important developments, because sustainability is a major concern. Biodegradable cellulose derivatives, in particular esters and ethers, are employed on a large scale. The recent developments in cellulose chemistry include unconventional methods for the synthesis of derivatives, introduction of novel solvents, e.g. ionic liquids, novel approaches to regioselective derivatization of cellulose, preparation of nano-particles and nano-composites for specific applications. These new developments are discussed comprehensively. This book is aimed at researchers and professionals working on cellulose and its derivatives. It fills an important gap in teaching, because most organic chemistry textbooks concentrate on the relatively simple chemistry of mono- and disaccharides. The chemistry and, more importantly, the applications of cellulose are only concisely mentioned.

The concept for a treatise covering selected natural polymer systems was initiated during a national meeting in cell biology in 1978. The challenge to the editor was to organize a book dealing principally but not exclusively with cellulose. A brief background may help to provide the reader with information to understand the reasons for the specific selections within this volume. better During the past decade, we have witnessed significant changes in the sciences as well as the day-to-day life styles of our citizens. It will not be forgotten that during the early seventies, a significant change was to take many Americans by surprise. The oil embargo on The United States caused unexpected shortages of fuels. The long gasoline lines impressed in the minds of Americans that our energy-rich future with non-renewable resources is limited. The modelling of ecosystems, population growth, urban development, etc., have continued to raise our awareness that life on earth, including renewable resources, is indeed fragile. Contrary to popular belief, even wood and wood products are not limitless.

Forest trees constitute one of the major resources of the world and their utilization, either for structural purposes or for the materials which they yield, dates back to antiquity. Over the centuries, the exploitation of this resource has become progressively more sophisticated, and, in many parts of the world has led to the development of highly complex forest-based industries. The research and development work which led to these industrial uses fostered the formation of numerous technical societies and associations, which, through their meetings and publi cations, have facilitated communication and the exchange of ideas. Over the years, there have been numerous symposia devoted to wood and the many facets of its properties and utilization. However, rarely has the emphasis in such symposia been placed upon the living tree and the changes which it undergoes in relation to its ultimate utilization. Hence the Phytochemical Society of North America arranged the symposium, "The Structure, Biosynthesis, and Degradation of Wood", held at the University of British Columbia in August, 1976. the contributions to which form the basis of the present volume.

Nanocellulose, a unique and promising natural material extracted from native cellulose, has received immense interest for its broad spectrum of applications owing to its remarkable physical properties, special surface chemistry, and excellent biological properties (biocompatibility, biodegradability and low toxicity). In attempts to meet the requirements of humanity's well-being, biomaterials scientists taking advantage of the structure and properties of nanocellulose aim to develop new and formerly non-existing materials with novel and multifunctional properties.This book highlights the importance of nanocellulose and reviews its synthesis, types, structure and properties. Further, it discusses various biofabrication approaches and applications of nanocellulose-based biomaterials in various fields such as the environment, biomedicine, optoelectronics, pharmaceutics, paper, renewable energy and the food industry. Devised to have a broad appeal, this book will be useful to beginners, who will appreciate its comprehensive approach, as well as active researchers, who will find the focus on recent advancements highly valuable.