Dissolving grades are characterized by very high alpha-cellulose content (typically 90% or above) and low hemicellulose and lignin residuals, achieved through additional purification steps such as acid pre-hydrolysis or alkaline extraction. Paper-grade pulps retain more hemicellulose, which aids bonding in papermaking but is undesirable in fiber and film applications.

Viscose (rayon) and lyocell fiber producers, cellulose acetate manufacturers (for cigarette filters and textile fibers), and producers of cellulose films and food casings are the principal buyers. Demand is closely tied to textile production cycles and, increasingly, to the growth of sustainable fiber alternatives to synthetic textiles.