Process for preparing cellulose derivatives

Abstract From the Canadian patent

Cellulose derivatives having a controlled molecular weight are prepared by adjusting oxygen concentration as measured by analyzing the quantity of oxygen in the head space of the reaction vessel to a level such that the cellulose derivative prepared therein has a desired solution viscosity. The cellulose derivative is then prepared in the reaction vessel without substantially increasing the quantity of oxygen in said reaction vessel. The cellulose derivatives of the invention have predictable solution viscosities.