Imaging cellulose fibre interfaces with fluorescence microscopy and resonance energy transfer

• Published in: Carbohydrate polymers 2007-07, Vol.69 (4), p.799-804
• Main Authors: Thomson, Cameron I., Lowe, Robert M., Ragauskas, Arthur J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Cellulose and derivatives; Cellulose fibres; Exact sciences and technology; Fibers and threads; Fibre bonding; Fluorescence microscopy; Fluorescence resonance energy transfer; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; Natural polymers; Physicochemistry of polymers; Polymer industry, paints, wood; Technology of polymers
• ISSN: 0144-8617; 1879-1344
• DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2007.01.023

Future developments in cellulosic materials are predicated by the need to understand the fundamental interactions that occur at cellulose fibre interfaces. These interfaces strongly influence the material properties of fibre networks and fibre reinforced composites. This study takes advantage of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and fluorescence microscopy to image cellulose interfaces. Steady-state epi-fluorescence microscopy suggests that energy transfer from coumarin dyed fibres to fluorescein dyed fibres is occurring at the fibre–fibre interface. The FRET response for natural spruce fibre interfaces is distinctly different from that observed in synthetic viscose fibres. This approach constitutes a novel methodology for the characterization of soft material interfaces on the molecular scale, and represents a major opportunity for advancing the understanding of fibrous network structures.