Novel biomass-based cellulosic biofiller from Artocarpus heterophyllus fruit seed outer peel: Extraction and characterization

This study explores the extraction and characterization of novel microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) from Artocarpus heterophyllus (jackfruit) seed outer peels and establish its suitability as a sustainable biomass source. MCC was obtained through a multi-step method consisting of alkaline treatment, acid hydrolysis, and oxidative bleaching. Structural and physicochemical features were analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), and laser diffraction particle size analysis. FTIR analysis confirmed the removal of lignin and hemicellulose, while XRD revealed a high crystallinity index of 73.14%. UV-Vis analysis indicated the presence of chromophoric groups, suggesting possible relevance in biomaterial-related applications. TGA and DSC analyses demonstrated that the extracted MCC possessed thermal stability up to 256.6 °C along with distinct thermal transitions. AFM and SEM analyses revealed a fibrous surface morphology with rough texture and heterogeneous microparticle distribution. These findings confirm that MCC derived from jackfruit seed outer peel (JSOP) exhibits promising structural and thermal characteristics suitable for future bio-composite reinforcement applications.