Preparation and Characterization of Cellulose Nanocrystals from Typha sp. as a Reinforcing Agent

In this study, Typha latifolia (Typha sp.) was investigated as a new raw material for the isolation of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) for future application in geopolymer cement. Cellulose was extracted from the stem fibers by carrying out alkali and bleaching treatments. CNCs were then isolated from the extracted cellulose using the acid hydrolysis method. The chemical composition of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin was 60.9%, 7.0%, and 5.7%, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy showed a reduction in particle size due to the loss of the amorphous portion of the Typha sp. fiber. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that CNCs in the acid hydrolysis treatment have good thermal stability at 240 degrees C which is higher than raw ones. Based on the characteristics of a Typha sp. CNCs, it can be concluded that CNCs have the potential to be used as a reinforcement in geopolymer cement.