The current proposal seeks for novel methods to replace synthetic polymers in microplastics (nano and micro particles) with environmentally friendly cellulosic materials. We suggest two epochmaking methods for cellulose regeneration: cellulose is shown to micro phase separate from its solution in ionic liquids 1) upon cooling and 2) when transferred from ionic liquid to aqueous media. Both processes result in formation of spherical beads of varying morphology. The beads can be chemically modified to obtain biodegradable benign materials with designed properties.

2019