| abstract |
A method for preparing oxidized cellulose, which comprises bringing a cellulose-containing material into contact with a reactant, such as 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl, producing an oxoammonium ion in the presence of an oxidizing agent. According to the invention, laccase is used as an oxidization agent. The invention provides selective oxidation, which gives rise to the formation of carboxylic and carbonyl groups at desired ratios in the cellulose. By using laccase it is possible to avoid the environmentally harmful halide-containing materials commonly used as oxidants. |