title: Multi-scale model for the hierarchical architecture of native cellulose hydrogels.
abstract: The structure of protiated and deuterated cellulose hydrogels has been investigated using a multi-technique approach combining small-angle scattering with diffraction, spectroscopy and microscopy. A model for the multi-scale structure of native cellulose hydrogels is proposed which highlights the essential role of water at different structural levels characterised by: (i) the existence of cellulose microfibrils containing an impermeable crystalline core surrounded by a partially hydrated paracrystalline shell, (ii) the creation of a strong network of cellulose microfibrils held together by hydrogen bonding to form cellulose ribbons and (iii) the differential behaviour of tightly bound water held within the ribbons compared to bulk solvent. Deuterium labelling provides an effective platform on which to further investigate the role of different plant cell wall polysaccharides in cellulose composite formation through the production of selectively deuterated cellulose composite hydrogels.
authors.affiliation: Bragg Institute, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, NSW 2232, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Walls, Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
authors.forename: Marta
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Martínez-Sanz
authors.affiliation: ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Walls, Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
authors.forename: Deirdre
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Mikkelsen
authors.affiliation: ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Walls, Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
authors.forename: Bernadine
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Flanagan
authors.affiliation: ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Walls, Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
authors.forename: Michael J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Gidley
authors.affiliation: Bragg Institute, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, NSW 2232, Australia. Electronic address: elliot.gilbert@ansto.gov.au.
authors.forename: Elliot P
authors.initials: EP
authors.lastname: Gilbert
mesh_terms: D002473:Cell Wall / Q000737:chemistry; D002482:Cellulose / Q000737:chemistry*; D020100:Hydrogels / Q000737:chemistry*; D015394:Molecular Structure; D011134:Polysaccharides / Q000737:chemistry; D053838:Scattering, Small Angle
chemical_list: D020100:Hydrogels; D011134:Polysaccharides; D002482:Cellulose
keywords: Cellulose; Deuteration; Hydrogels; Komagataeibacter xylinus; Neutron scattering; Small angle scattering