SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF ALGINATE-CARBOXYMETHIL CELLULOSE BEADS FROM CORN STALK (Zea mays) WITH CROSSLINK VARIATION C4H6O4Zn

Abstract

<em>Corn stalk has a high cellulose content, so that it is potential to be used as a composition for making alginate-carboxymethyl cellulose beads. Alginate and cellulose are biodegradable, renewable and non-meltable polymers that have wide applications in various industrial sectors. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of crosslinking agent C<sub>4</sub>H<sub>6</sub>O<sub>4</sub>Zn on the adsorption and shape of beads. The varied concentrations of C<sub>4</sub>H<sub>6</sub>O<sub>4</sub>Zn are 3%; 5% and 10%. Characterization of alginate-carboxymethyl cellulose beads composites using Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR), and Scanning Electron Microscope-Energy Dispersive X-Ray (SEM-EDX).</em> <em>Based on research, the highest swelling value is obtained at 5% C<sub>4</sub>H<sub>6</sub>O<sub>4</sub>Zn crosslink which is 59.68%. FTIR data shows the appearance of wave numbers at 1413 cm<sup>-1</sup> which indicates the presence of C-O Na groups, while at wave number 458 cm<sup>-1</sup> indicates the presence of Zn-O groups. SEM-EDX data with a 5% C<sub>4</sub>H<sub>6</sub>O<sub>4</sub>Zn crosslink has a round shape with a wrinkled surface, multiple grooves causing a non-homogeneous surface. Whereas in C<sub>4</sub>H<sub>6</sub>O<sub>4</sub>Zn 10% the surface is almost smooth</em>