| abstract |
In modern processes for preparing cellulose ethers containing one or more types of substituents, such as MC, CMC, HEC, HPC, MHEC or EHEC, cellulose is reacted with an etherifying agent in the presence of water, base and at least one inert organic solvent (as a dispersing auxiliary). Dimethoxyethane (ethylene glycol dimethyl ether) is employed as a new organic solvent for these syntheses, particularly in quantities of 1 to 30 parts by weight per part by weight of cellulose. |