Cellulose microfibrils from banana fibers: Characterization at different chemical processes

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to investigate the morphological, chemical and thermal behaviors of cellulose microfibrils isolated from banana stem fibers by different chemical processes. The structural properties of cellulose microfibrils are analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Powdered x-ray Diffraction (PXRD), and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Results reveal that cellulose microfibrils of diameter 1-2 μm can be isolated at the end of chemical treatment. Chemical characterization confirms that the α-cellulose content is increased from 68% to 82% by acid-alkali treatment. FT-IR spectroscopy shows the partial removal of hemicellulose and lignin content. PXRD results show improved crystallinity after acid-alkali treatment. TGA results show that the cellulose microfibrils are trusted candidate for reinforcement with polymers having degradation temperature reaches beyond 380 °C.