One of three classes of Cellulose, alpha cellulose has the highest degree of polymerization and is the most stable. The other two classes, known as hemicelluloses, are Beta cellulose and Gamma cellulose. Alpha cellulose is the major component of wood and paper pulp.

TYPICAL USES

• Paper production: Alpha cellulose is a raw material used in the manufacturing of paper and paperboards.
• Textile manufacturing: Alpha cellulose is used in fabric finishing.
• Filter aid: Alpha cellulose is used in brine, wine, metal, oil, and beverage filtration. Equipment that uses cellulose as a filter aid includes filter presses, chamber filters, and rotary vacuum precoat filters.
• Welding electrodes: Alpha cellulose is used in welding electrodes.
• Specialty chemicals production: Alpha cellulose is used in the production of propellants, cellulose derivatives, and plastic composites. 

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

• Stability: Alpha cellulose is the most stable type of cellulose.
• Degree of polymerization: Alpha cellulose has the highest degree of polymerization.
• Chemical stability: It can withstand exposure to other chemicals without major changes.
• Biodegradability: It is derived from natural sources like wood pulp and is eco-friendly.
• Absorbency: It has high absorbency. 

Alpha Cellulose