Charge-directed fiber surface modification by molecular assemblies of functional polysaccharides.

Molecular assemblies, namely, polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) composed of negatively charged xylan-based derivatives and a novel positively charged cellulose derivative (CN(+)), were used for interfacial modification of wood fibers by charge directed self-assembly. The adsorption process was studied using polyelectrolyte titration and elemental analysis. X-ray spectroscopy (XPS) and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) were used as advanced techniques for the characterization of the modified fiber surfaces. The measurements revealed an intense interaction between the pulp fibers and PECs, and provided essential information for a better understanding of the adsorption process. The information gathered on this paper might contribute to the basis for the development of new value added products by the use of underutilized biomass.