Cellulose Ester-Based Aerogel: Lightweight and Highly Water-Absorbent

Abstract

Cellulose was extracted from waste generated by pruning tea stem wastes. The interaction between pure cellulose and homophthalic acid produced a light (0.22 g·cm–3) and eco-friendly hybrid aerogel product that is highly absorbent (85 g of water per 1 g of aerogel). The product has a Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area of 221 m2·g–1. In addition, the product was analyzed for its structural and functional properties using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared, and X-ray diffraction. The methodology employed in this study is uncomplicated, utilizing easily accessible and sustainable biowaste at a low cost. As a result, the current process is well-adapted for industrial-scale production, with the potential for significant advancements in the field of green materials.