Implications of Particle Size in the Extraction of Cellulose from the Calamagrostis Intermedia Species

Abstract

This research aimed to elucidate the implications of particle size on cellulose extraction from the species Calamagrostis intermedia, endemic to Ecuador. Within the versatile cellulose extraction and trade industry, using timber sources results in a relentless environmental impact, mainly when no resource rationing occurs during the washing or bleaching phases. The investigation incorporated a sample pretreatment encompassing a drying, grinding, and sieving study, followed by an alkaline extraction. The study found that particle size significantly affected the quantity of fiber and cellulose pulp extracted from samples previously dried at 65°C with particle sizes of 300 and 106 μm. Characterization tests revealed variations in the color and texture of the extracted cellulose, attributable to an ineffective delignification stage within the fiber bleaching process. Variations in molecular weight corresponding to 126.32 x 103 g/mol were identified among samples, and FTIR analysis presented a syringyl ring and lignin stretching. Optical microscopy exposed the absence of well-defined regions in the fibers and a readily observable crystalline network. In conclusion, particle size critically influences cellulose extraction from Calamagrostis intermedia, impacting the yield and properties of the resultant product, indicating that further optimization of the extraction and delignification process is required to enhance the quality of the extracted cellulose. Keywords: Calamagrostis intermedia; Particle Size; Cellulose Extraction