Synthesis and Characterization of Carboxymethyl Cellulose from Sugarcane Bagasse Cellulose Using Physical and Chemical Pretreatments
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Abstract
This study investigates the optimization of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) synthesis from sugarcane bagasse cellulose through combined physical and chemical pretreatments. Bagasse, an abundant lignocellulosic byproduct of sugarcane juice extraction, underwent a sequential combination of heating, alkali treatment, and chloroacetic acid modification to obtain CMC. The synthesized CMC was characterized for degree of substitution (DS), viscosity, surface morphology, and functional group composition. Viscosity analysis was increased from 1.02 cP (0% w/v) to 6,770.35 cP (2.5% w/v), demonstrating excellent thickening properties suitable for various industrial applications. The DS value of 0.94 ± 0.21 indicated a high degree of hydroxyl substitution by carboxymethyl groups. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a highly porous, roughened surface structure, reflecting the removal of lignin and hemicellulose during pretreatment. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the successful incorporation of carboxymethyl groups, with distinct peaks at 1613 cm⁻¹ (C=O stretching) and 1152 cm⁻¹ (C–O–C stretching). The results demonstrate that optimized pretreatment conditions enhance cellulose purity and reactivity, yielding high-quality CMC with desirable physicochemical properties. This approach offers a sustainable pathway for valorizing agricultural waste into high-value biopolymers with potential applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
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