Isolation and extraction of microcellulose from Alpine galanga fiber

Bleaching and alkalization techniques enhance cellulose isolation and extraction, leading to higher yields and improved quality, but may cause inconsistencies in production and quality.This study investigates the extraction, characterization, and thermal properties of Alpine galanga fiber (AGF), a byproduct of traditional Indonesian herbal medicine. Utilizing hydrothermal bleaching and alkali treatments, the cellulose content in AGF was significantly enhanced, achieving a purity of up to 73%. These treatments effectively removed contaminants, improved fiber crystallinity as shown by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and enhanced surface features observed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) identified several stages of thermal decomposition, with treated fibers exhibiting increased thermal resistance. The findings indicate that bleaching and alkalization techniques enhance the yield, quality, and chemical properties of AGF, highlighting its potential for industrial applications. Further optimization and focused investigations are recommended to fully exploit AGF in the development of biocomposites and environmentally friendly materials.