Cellulose acetate is the generic term used to describe a variety of acetylated cellulose polymers, including cellulose diacetate, cellulose triacetate and the mixed esters of cellulose acetate propionate and cellulose acetate butyrate. Cellulose acetate film softens in acetone and can be used for duplicating purposes. Acetate films which is wet with acetone can then be applied to a surface. It is easily removed away from the object when dry.

Uses: Cellulose Acetate Films and Packaging
Cellulose acetate film is a very versatile general purpose plastic which is always considered an industry standard in graphic arts, packaging, printing, overlays, and many other applications. Various packaging materials used for different purposes are made using these films. For packaging materials, these films are available in various finishes like

• Matte
• Clear
• Gel coated (Prepared)
  

Features
Such films are used for making packaging materials because of their features like as follows:

• Optical clarity
• Lay Flat
• Printable
• Availability in variety of gauges

Maintenance and Care
Cellulose acetate films may block due to the formation of an adhesive layer caused as a result of the decomposition reaction. In this reaction the additive triphenyl phosphate is driven from the base by the increased acidity and then forms an adhesive bond between the gelatin layers of the emulsion and backcoat. Care must be taken for this. The adhesive layer can be dissolved using an ethanol and carrier solution to remove blocking of the film.

Deterioration of the Film
The deterioration behavior of cellulose films was examined in HCL and sodium hydroxide solutions of various concentrations to determine acid and base catalytic effects in heterogeneous systems at room temperature. With higher concentration, the physical properties of the films changed. The films recovered after 10 days were slightly opaque and rubbery from swelling in the solutions before drying. They became brittle and shrank when dried. The deterioration depended completely on the deacetylation of cellulose acetate.