Synthesis of Microcrystalline Cellulose from Sugarcane Bagasse and Its Incorporation into Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) Matrix to Test the Composites Mechanical Properties

Plastic pollution and energy consumption are two of the most significant problems facing modern society. While the non-degradability of plastic leaves negative impacts on Earth’s ecosystem, fossil fuel usage as an energy source greatly contributes to air pollution and consequently human health. Scientists are focusing efforts on biodegradable materials and energy-neutral methods to develop a replacement for plastics and fossil fuels. This study was conducted to extract cellulose from bagasse, synthesize microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and apply it to composites formation, and finally examine their mechanical properties. Furthermore, modified starch E1404 was used as a reference reinforcement agent in two distinct ways: solid starch and hydrated starch. Results show that Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) film with 10% microcrystalline cellulose MCC reinforcement has the lowest tensile strength value based on ATSM D882 standard reaching a mean value of 3.92 MPa in stress peak (nearly half the value of pure PVA). Regarding the starch composite, hydrated starch composites show better tensile strength than solid starch composites at higher starch content (PVA/Starch 6:4).