Enzyme-assisted modification of cellulose/chitin fibers with NIPAAm

Both enzyme-activated and subsequently modified samples were characterized by ATR-FTIR, XPS, and SEM. All obtained results confirm the structural and morphological changes of the fiber surface after the application of the two-step procedure. The particular responsiveness to temperature and to pH of the coated fibers was evidenced by following the swelling behavior. It was established that the swelling kinetics followed a Fickian behavior.