Bromide-free oxidizing system for carboxylic moiety formation in cellulose chain

► NHPI (N-hydroxyphthalimide) and copper chloride (II) were used as efficient mediators for the cellulose fibers oxidation. ► No sodium bromide is required for this oxidation protocol, thus eliminating the corrosion and environmental concerns. ► Carboxylic group's formation was determined by potentiometric titration and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.