ABSTRACT
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Cellulose, which is found in plant walls, is themost abundant raw material onEarth.Millions of
pounds of this biorenewable polymer are produced every year. The total worldwide consump-
tion of cellulosic fibers in 1998 was 4817 million pounds [1]. Cellulose is plentiful, inexpensive,
and biodegradable. It is capable of producing a number of fibrous products with excellent
properties whose utility extends into numerous end uses and industries. Cellulose is an excellent
source of textile fibers, for both the commodity and the high-end, fashion-oriented markets. A
common example is rayon. In addition, cellulose provides fibers for industrial end uses
requiring strong, tough fibers. A common example is fibers used in tire cord.
