Application of Nano Crystalline Cellulose (NCC) From Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch as Reinforcement of Bioplastic Nanocomposite With Polivynil Alcohol (PVA) Matrix

Abstract

The number of oil palm empty fruit bunches (OPEFB) in Indonesia is very abundant and has not been used optimally and becoming industrial waste. Indonesia is the second largest country that contributes to the volume of plastic waste in the oceans. Thus, we need a more environmentally friendly plastic alternative, called as bioplastics. Nano Crystalline Cellulose can improve the quality and physical properties of bioplastics. Bioplastic products from nanocellulose are transformed into plastic products that have high selling value. The purpose of this study was to determine the characteristics of bioplastics with nano crystalline cellulose (NCC) reinforcement and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix. Bioplastic composites have tensile strength ranged from 17.8-20.14 MPa, and have met the minimum standard of tensile strength values for bioplastic based on the Japanese Industrial Standard. The addition of NCC succeeded in reducing the value of the water vapor transmission rate and increasing the tensile strength of the bioplastic composites. Bioplastics can be completely degraded in the fourth week. The development of NCC applications in various fields of bioplastics, chemistry, food, pharmaceuticals, and others is highly recommended.