Perichromism: A powerful tool for probing the properties of cellulose and its derivatives

This overview is concerned with the use of certain dyes (perichromic indicators, hereafter designated as “probes”) in order to determine the properties of cellulose, its solutions and solid derivatives. It is arranged as follows: (i) the properties of cellulose and its derivatives that are relevant to their applications are listed; (ii) a general discussion is presented on how perichromism can be employed in order to gain information on the medium where the probe is present; (iii) the results of perichromism, as applied to cellulose, cellulose solutions, and derivative films are discussed.