Cellulose Nanofibers from Palm Oil Empty Fruit Bunches as Reinforcement in Bioplastic

Abstract

Currently, packaging especially for food is a significant concern because made of plastic, which is difficult to degrade. Cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) as the composite reinforcement are chosen as a suitable replacement for the fiber. This nanocomposite is made with the main aim of making biodegradable food packaging with other capabilities such as antioxidant, antibacterial, etc. The food packaging was next referred to as bioplastic, consisting of several components. One of the major concerns is selecting cross-linking agents in nanocomposites production. The use of essential oil extracts from plants is widespread because it has an excellent binding ability and good chemical properties. The essential oil of orange peel can be extracted and used because it contains flavonoid compounds that act as antioxidants. The CNFs were made from palm oil empty fruit bunches (EFB) using the acid hydrolysis process in the previous research. The study of this nanocomposites production successfully makes transparent bioplastic. SEM results show a surface with fewer pores filled with cellulose fiber and protein. The addition of essential oil to the film increases the cross-linking bond in the matrix, improving its mechanical properties. The bioplastic was tested its endurance when buried in soil for 6 days and showed a promising results.