Monoamine-Induced Supramolecular Gelation of Cellulose Succinate via Ionic Complexation

Abstract

Cellulose succinate (CS), an anionic cellulose ester, was examined as a semi-rigid polysaccharide platform for supramolecular gelation with monoamines, typically regarded as simple counterions rather than crosslinkers. Near-stoichiometric conditions at 50 °C yielded self-supporting hydrogels within 15–18 h. FTIR shifts and zeta-potential changes support ammonium–carboxylate ion pairing and partial charge compensation. Reversible vapor-phase ethylamine uptake, approximately 6.5-fold higher than cellulose, indicates solid-state acid–base interaction. These findings suggest that cooperative ionic complexation and secondary interactions collectively promote monoamine-induced gelation.