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.