Isolation and characterization of microcrystalline cellulose from oil palm fronds biomass using consecutive chemical treatments

Transforming oil palm fronds (OPF), currently considered waste, into valuable microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) is a sustainable solution with multiple benefits. The goal of this study was to extract MCC from OPF waste. The cellulose was isolated using consecutive processes, namely alkaline treatment, bleaching, and acid hydrolysis. The study's results show that OPF fibers have an MCC structure and a unique crystal structure. The study says that MCC made from OPF waste has a high crystallinity index. This means that it is better for use in green composites because it is compatible, adheres to surfaces well, and has good physicochemical properties.