Radiation crosslinking of methylcellulose and hydroxyethylcellulose in concentrated aqueous solutions

The effects of ionizing radiation on aqueous solutions of cellulose ethers, methylcellulose (MC) and hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) were investigated. The well-established knowledge states that cellulose and its derivatives belong to degrading type of polymers. However, in our study intermolecular crosslinking initiated by gamma rays or electron beam leaded to the formation of insoluble gel. This is an opposite effect of irradiation to the degradation. Paste-like form of the initial specimen, i.e. concentration 20-30%, when water plasticizes the bulk of polymer; and a high dose rate were favorable for hydrogel formation. Gel fraction up to 60% and 70% was obtained from solutions of HEC and MC, respectively. Produced hydrogels swell markedly in aqueous media by imbibing and holding the solvent. Radiation parameters of irradiation, such as yields of degradation and crosslinking and the gelation dose, were evaluated by sol gel analysis on the basis of Charlesby-Rosiak equation. Despite of the crosslinked structure, obtained hydrogels can be included into the group of biodegradable materials. They undergo decomposition by the action of cellulase enzyme or microorganisms from compost. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.