Homogeneous acetylation of cellulose was performed in a new mixed ionic liquid N-allyl-N- methylmorpholinium chloride ([AMMor]Cl) and 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([AMIm]Cl) in the absence of catalyst. The degree of substitution to cellulose acetates ranged from 2.58 to 3.00. The products were characterized by FT-IR, ¹H NMR and ¹³C NMR spectra. The results showed that modification of cellulose with acetyl chloride using [AMMor]Cl/[AMIm]Cl as solvent resulted in the production of cellulosic monoester, and the acetylation at C-6, C-3 and C-2 positions of the cellulose all occurred. The new homogeneous path gave pure cellulose acetates. All reactions were carried out under mild conditions, low excess of reagent and a short reaction time. The reaction media applied could be easily recycled.

Key words: cellulose, cellulose acetate, ionic liquid, homogeneous acetylation, degree of substitution