Abstract: A process and apparatus for making alkali cellulose having a desired predetermined degree of polymerization in which cellulose is steeped in an alkali hydroxide bath, generally 17-25% sodium hydroxide, and then passed through an RF treatment chamber where it is subjected to an RF energy field, to produce a controlled depolymerization thereof. Upon emergence from the steeping bath, the cellulose passes to an excess solution removing means, such as one or a series of pairs of nip rolls where the excess solution is expressed from the cellulose and the amount of absorbed alkali is controlled. Preferably, the excess solution is recovered and returned to the steeping baths. A second, lower concentration, steep bath may follow the RF treatment chamber.