GB396796A - Process for the production of ethers of cellulose esters - Google Patents

Abstract

A cellulose ester or mixed ester is reacted with an oxyalkylating agent in the absence of strong inorganic bases such as caustic soda under such conditions that no substantial saponification of the cellulose ester occurs. The reaction is preferably effected in the absence of bases, particularly when alkylene oxides are used as oxyalkylating agents, but ammonia or organic bases may be present in proportion insufficient substantially to saponify the ester groups. The cellulose ester may be a fatty ester such as the acetate, propionate, butyrate, laurate, oleate, or stearate, or a benzoate, or a mixed ester containing both acetate radicles and radicles of higher fatty acids. Esters containing the CSS group are excluded. The oxyalkylation may be effected in the liquid or gaseous phase, with or without inert liquids or gases, and if desired under pressure. The products may be employed in the production of artificial silk, films, varnishes, plastic masses, moulding powders, and the like. In examples, (1) cellulose acetate containing 2 to 2,5 ester groups is heated in an autoclave with ethylene oxide, (2) cellulose acetate stearate containing 1,5 to 2 acetate radicles and a small proportion of stearate radicles is treated with butylene oxide under pressure, and (3) cellulose benzoate containing 1,5 to 2 ester groups is reacted with propylene oxide in the presence of oxypropylmethylamine. Specification 326,861, [Class 2 (ii), Cellulose &c.], is referred to.