The nitration of cotton cloth

Abstract

The investigation was begun in an attempt to obtain a cellulose nitrate, cloth, (by the direct nitration of cotton cloth) which would be suitable for use in powder bags. Such a product must have a rapid rate of combustion, a very small amount of ash, and a tensile strength which would meet Government requirements for powder bags.

The results of the research conducted upon the nitration of cotton cloth indicate that a high percent of nitrogen can be obtained in a very short time. However, in most cases the action needed to produce a high nitrate is so drastic that the tensile strength of the cloth is greatly reduced. This degradation is most likely due to the hydrolytic action of the acids.