Carboxymethyl Cellulose-Blended Films from Rice Stubble as a New Potential Biopolymer Source to Reduce Agricultural Waste: A Mini Review

Abstract

The vegetative part of the rice plant, Oryza sativa L., that remains after paddy fields have been cleared during harvest or afterward is known as rice stubble. Carboxymethyl Cellulose from Rice Stubble (CMCr) is a promising biopolymer source that can be made from rice stubble waste. Carboxymethyl cellulose was synthesized from rice stubble by a solvent-casting method. Various types of plasticizers (glycerol and olive oil) and the components they contain provide flexibility for use as a material for food packaging. The films' moisture barrier was enhanced by the olive oil content while their extensibility was enhanced by the glycerol content. Indonesia is known as a country with the majority of the population working as farmers. Along with the increase in rice harvested area each year, agricultural waste in the form of rice stubble is also increasing. In the future, the application of CMCr in food packaging has the potential to revolutionize sustainable practices in Indonesia's agricultural sector. By leveraging CMCr's unique properties, such as enhanced moisture barrier and increased extensibility, there is an opportunity to develop eco-friendly packaging solutions. This innovation not only addresses the challenge of rising rice stubble waste but also contributes to the reduction of environmental pollution, offering a greener and more sustainable approach to packaging in the country.