The threat of intoxication by organophosphates - pesticides and chemical warfare - is a real concern worldwide. Fast, efficient and non-aggressive approaches for prevention and treatment are required. The use of functionalized biopolymers towards chemical neutralization of organophosphate is strategic since it is environmentally friendly. Herein, three carboxymethyl cellulose-derived biocatalysts were achieved via covalent functionalization with hydroxamates and imidazoles, targeted on the carboxylic acids of the cellulosic biopolymer. The aimed strategy was successful, confirmed by characterizations with Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, potentiometric titration, thermogravimetric analysis, zeta potential titrations, size-exclusion chromatography with multi-angle static light scattering, colorimetric test with iron (III) and rheological assays. The materials in colloidal form were highly reactive in the catalytic neutralization -evaluated by kinetic studies - with rate enhancements up to 10