Physico-chemical characterisation of carboxymethylated spun cellulose fibres.

A new fibrous material for the treatment of exudative wounds is characterised in terms of its physico-chemical properties. The chemistry of the material is analysed and its crystalline structure hypothesised. The influence of the structure on the hydration properties of the carboxymethylated cellulose fibre in fabric form is also demonstrated by physical test methods in comparison with fibrous alginate dressings. The methods illustrate the ability of the material to immobilise fluid by gel blocking and suggest how this can be beneficial in the treatment of chronic wounds by protecting the delicate peri-ulcer area from maceration by exudate.