Synthesis and mechanical performance of thermoformable cellulose fatty acid esters using natural soap.

A cellulose fatty acid ester consisting solely of natural organic compounds is synthesized by heterogeneous esterification. Solid soap, a natural product-based compound, is used as a mixed fatty acid source. The synthesized cellulose ester can be readily processed into a semi-transparent film. Mechanical properties of the cellulose ester are also investigated.