Homogeneous Functionalization of Biopolymers Utilizing Ionic Liquids

Diethylaminoethyl-cellulose (DEAE-cellulose) is widely used as the stationary phase in ion-exchange chromatography, where it functions as an anion exchanger. The addition of the DEAE branch to the cellulose backbone also increases its ability to chelate with metals in solution. The effectiveness of DEAE-cellulose to perform these functions is determined by its degree of substitution (DS). One way to increase the DS of the DEAE-cellulose is to functionalize the cellulose in a homogeneous solution. Historically, this has been difficult due to the harsh solvents required to dissolve cellulose. Ionic liquids may offer a solution to this problem as they can be used as green alternatives to traditionally harsh biopolymer solvents. This research will focus on the modification of cellulose into DEAE-cellulose using a homogeneous ionic liquid solution. The success of the cellulose modification will be determined by calculating the DS from titration data.