Pectin-Starch Biocomposite Reinforced with Rattan-Derived Cellulose Nanocrystals: A Study of Mechanical and Water Absorption Properties

Abstract

Bioplastics derived from natural resources such as pectin and starch often need more application due to their hygroscopic and poor mechanical properties. Employing CNC as a filler overcomes these limitations. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of CNC and plasticizer contents on biocomposite based on pectin-starch. This study incorporated CNC (1, 2, 3, and 4 wt%) and glycerol (10, 20, 30, and 40 wt%) into the biocomposite formulation using the casting solution method. Characterization of the CNC was carried out using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR). TEM and SEM analyses revealed that CNC exhibited a rod-like shape with sizes ranging from 10 to 70 nm. Based on FTIR, the CNC spectrums showed that lignin, hemicellulose, and other impurities have been removed from rattan biomass. Properties of biocomposite were analyzed using tensile, water absorption, and SEM. The suitable result of biocomposite was obtained at 2 wt% of CNC and 30 wt% of glycerol with a tensile strength of 11.18 MPa. Hence, the combination of CNC from rattan biomass and glycerol enhances the mechanical properties of the biocomposite, making it the most suitable for applications requiring improved tensile strength. At the same time, the surface morphology demonstrates improved dispersion and surface quality.