The Impact of Cellophane on the Evironment

Cellophane, a transparent cellulose-based material, is biodegradable and has no significant impact on the environment. However, its manufacturing process can contribute to the formation of ground level ozone, which is considered an air pollutant.

History

• Cellophane was an accidental discovery by a Swiss textile engineer named Jacques Edwin Brandenberger. According to Americanchemistry.com, he added rayon to cloth while trying to develop a stain-proof tablecloth. The result was a clear, brittle material that was more suitable for waterproof packaging.

Carbon Disulfide

• Cellophane is produced using carbon disulfide, a volatile compound which occurs naturally in the atmosphere. Small amounts of the compound break down fairly quickly, so it does little harm unless significantly high levels are present.

High Levels of Carbon Disulfide

• In high concentrations, carbon disulfide can react with other volatile compounds in the air to form smog. It can also irritate the respiratory and nervous systems and damage the eyes. The Environmental Protection Agency regulates the release of carbon disulfide.