Understanding Binding of Quaternary Ammonium Compounds with Cellulose-Based Fibers and Wipes for Renewable and Sustainable Hygiene Options

Abstract

Cellulose-based fibers are desirable materials for nonwoven wipes for their good absorbency, strength, cleaning, and biodegradable properties. However, quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), being cationic in nature, show electrostatic interactions with anionic cellulosic fibers, reducing the available QACs to efficiently clean surfaces. This research presents sustainable alternative fibers that show better controlled exhaustion than commercial wipes and textile fibers. Textile and lignocellulosic fibers were prepared, soaked in QAC, and a UV–vis spectrophotometer was used to measure their exhaustion percentages. Factors such as immersion time and concentration of the disinfectant were also investigated, which affect the rate of exhaustion of the disinfectant from the fibers. A higher immersion time resulted in better exhaustion, whereas the total exhaustion decreased with an increase in the initial concentration of the disinfectant. The exhaustion of benzalkonium chloride (BAC) from the commercial wipes was also investigated at different immersion times and BAC concentrations. It was found that the wood and non-wood fibers showed more controlled exhaustion than the textile fibers and commercial wipes, and could be considered an alternative option for renewable and sustainable wipes and hygiene products.

The Development of a Fully Renewable Lubricant: The Effect of Ethyl Cellulose on the Properties of a Polyhydroxyalkanoate (P34HB)-Based Grease

“…This method has garnered increasing research interest in utilizing biopolymers (such as cellulose and its derivatives) and vegetable oils as viable sources for grease preparation. Cellulose and its derivatives are sustainable biomaterials obtained from renewable resources that find applications as thickeners in various substances and fields, including food, tissue [2], cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, paints, and coatings [3]. Of particular interest is the conversion of cellulose into valuable cellulose esters and ethers like ethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, and hydroxyethyl cellulose, which has gained significant interest in the field of green and sustainable chemistry, resulting in advancements in environmental protection technologies [4].…”