MORPHOLOGICAL AND STRUCTURAL CHARACTERIZATION OF NANOCELLULOSE EXTRACTED FROM BANANA PSEUDOSTEM WASTE

This research aimed to obtain nanocellulose (NCs) from banana pseudostem (BPs) biomass waste, and studying its morphological and structural surface characteristics. The extraction process involved treatments several physical, chemical, and mechanical, including degumming, delignification, acid hydrolysis, and ultrasonication. The banana pseudostem fiber (BPF), degummed banana fiber (DBF), banana cellulose fiber (BCF), and Nanocellulose (NCs) were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to examine the morphology of BPF, DBF, and BCF, while transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to verify the format and size of NCs. The XRD results showed that the NCs had a crystallization index of 87.6%. TEM analysis revealed that the NCs contained network-connected structures as well as spherical shapes. The mean diameter and length of the NCs were 28.9 ± 16.2 nm and 166.2 ± 104.5 nm, respectively. The results of evaluating the lignocellulose content also showed that BPF consists of 55.4% cellulose, 22.3% hemicellulose, and 12.5% lignin, making it a valuable source of nanocellulose. The extraction of NCs from BPF holds great potential for applications in engineering and environmental science, particularly in the area of water treatment. Additionally, it contributes to sustainable development by managing agricultural waste and combating environmental pollution.