Isolation and Characterization α-Cellulose from Cocoa Pod Husk using Peracetic Acid

Abstract Cocoa Pod Husk (CPH) is the main by-product of cocoa pods (Theobroma cacao L.) with 67-76% fruit weight. However, CPH has a negative impact if it not utilized and disposed directly in environment. The fiber content form lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose, pectin. Cellulose content, especially α-cellulose high potential further utilized, one which nanocellulose. This study aims to produce from husks purity. first research activity carried out was process removing pectin bleaching be free impurities such as pectin, hemicellulose. Then cellulose isolation using Peracetic Acid (PAA) can shorten process. variation PAA concentration 1:4 (mol/mol) without dilution; (mole/mole) by 1:1 (mole/mole). results this were highest 69.39% obtained mole ratio dilution. did qualify SNI 938-2017 standard, 94%. FTIR, XRD, SEM characterization showed that present hydrolysed CPH.