Extraction and characterization of novel cellulose nanocrystals from Artemisia scoparia straw and their application in hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) films

This research study reports on the extraction of nanocellulose followed by structural and thermal analysis and application of nanocellulose in hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) nanocomposite films. The cellulose nanocrystals were isolated from Artemisia scoparia straw through an alkaline treatment and bleaching process, followed by sulphuric acid hydrolysis. The HPMC nanocomposite films were prepared by a solution casting method and dried at room temperature. Fourier transform infrared-ray (FTIR) spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) techniques were used to analyze the structural and thermal properties of the materials, including the cellulosic material, the nanomaterial, and the nanocomposites. The FTIR spectra indicated that the extraction procedure was adequate, demonstrating the removal of lignin and hemicellulose and the preparation of nanocellulose. The TGA results revealed the thermal degradation pattern of the cellulose and showed that the HPMC films had enhanced thermal stability. This research demonstrates that A. scoparia straw has potential for the extraction of cellulosic nanomaterial and a wide range of applications in nanocomposites.