Production of Cellulose Hydrogel from Nipa (Nypa fruticans Wurmb) Frond

Abstract

Objectives:The study is aimed to assess the potential of nipa frond biomass to produce cellulose hydrogel by analyzing the elemental composition, morphology, solubility, and effectivity of the isolated nipa α-cellulose (iNαC). Methods: The iNαC was produced through physico-chemical treatments and examined using a scanning electron microscope. After dissolving the cellulose, it was mixed with various chemical cross-linkers to produce cellulose hydrogels. Findings: Results showed that the iNαC had well-distributed microfibrils of cellulose arranged in parallel orthogonal layers. Solubility (%) reveals treatment 2, involving 10% NaOH pre-treatment of iNαC, yielded the ideal cellulose for eco-friendly and cost-effective cellulose solution production with high solubility percentage. Moreover, cellulose-based hydrogels were more viscous and more turbid than water-based hydrogels, increasing the integrity of the produced hydrogels. Novelty: The study demonstrates that iNαC can be transformed into a cellulose-based hydrogel through a one-step chemical crosslinking process, which can streamline the production process and reduce toxic pollution. This has important environmental benefits and potential applications in medical, agricultural, and wastewater treatment.