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Localization of crystalline allomorphs in cellulose microfibril
Yoshiki Horikawa1, Junji Sugiyama
1Research Institute for Sustainable Humanosphere, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan. yhorikawa@rish.kyoto-u.ac.jp
Biomacromolecules
|June 10, 2009
Summary
Investigating cellulose structures using FTIR spectroscopy and deuteration reveals domain localization. Findings challenge the simple skin-core model for native cellulose, suggesting a more complex arrangement of I(alpha) and I(beta) domains.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Spectroscopy
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Cellulose exists in different crystalline forms, primarily I(alpha) and I(beta).
- Understanding the spatial arrangement of these domains within microfibrils is crucial for material properties.
- Previous models suggested a simple 'skin-core' distribution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the localization of I(alpha) and I(beta) domains within cellulose microfibrils.
- To elucidate the conversion process from I(alpha) to I(beta) allomorphs.
- To test the validity of the 'skin-core' model in native celluloses.
Main Methods:
- Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was employed.
- Intracrystalline deuteration and rehydrogenation techniques were utilized.
- Analysis focused on specific absorbance changes related to I(alpha) and I(beta) domains.
Main Results:
- In artificially converted Glaucocystis cellulose, I(beta) domains appeared to surround an I(alpha) core, with conversion proceeding from surface to core.
- In native Valonia and Cladophora celluloses, deuteration and rehydrogenation affected I(alpha) and I(beta) domains synchronously.
- Synchronous changes indicate that a simple 'skin-core' model is not applicable to these native celluloses.
Conclusions:
- The I(alpha) to I(beta) conversion mechanism can vary depending on the cellulose source and processing.
- Native celluloses exhibit a more intricate distribution of I(alpha) and I(beta) domains than previously modeled.
- The 'skin-core' model is an oversimplification for describing domain organization in certain native cellulose types.
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