Comparative study of the production of cellulose nanofibers from agro-industrial waste streams of Salicornia ramosissima by acid and enzymatic treatment

The study of the suitability two isolation processes to produce cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) from Salicornia ramosissima waste, with potential applicability as a reinforcing agent polymeric composites was carried out. To separate fibrils cell wall and obtain CNFs an alkaline treatment applied followed by bleaching and, insoluble residue next hydrolyzed either acid (AT) or enzyme (ET). SEM TEM images indicated fiber exposure caused both treatments. diameter, length, aspect ratio, polydispersity index, were measured for CNFs. CNF (ET) showed high zeta values suggesting that ET produces more electrically stable thinner nanofibers. FTIR spectra revealed treatments effectively removed amorphous components allowing isolation, XRD patterns evidenced increase in degree crystallinity Nonetheless, CNF(AT) presented lower mechanical resistance due its smaller particle size, compared CNF(ET). In summary, could successfully isolate encouraging use this treatment, once when (AT), it does not generate toxic residues, presents mild thermal conditions, higher-value applications.