Extraction and characterization of cellulose nanoparticles from palm kernel meal for potential application in active food packaging

Abstract

The research aimed to explore the potential of palm kernel meal (PKM) as a sustainable source of cellulose nanoparticles (CNPs) for active food packaging. The CNPs were isolated using a combination of chemical techniques, such as alkaline treatment, bleaching, and acid hydrolysis. The characterization of the CNPs was analysed using various techniques, including scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and UV-visible spectroscopy. The findings revealed that chemical processing effectively removed lignin and hemicellulose from PKM. The SEM morphology confirmed the separation of the CNPs, resulting in the production of 40-100 nm spherical cellulose nanoparticles, while XRD and FTIR analyses confirmed their purity and composition. Moreover, the UV-visible spectroscopy exhibited high transmittance rates, indicating the potential of CNPs as reinforcing agents for polymer matrices. The significance of utilising PKM as a valuable fibre source for extracting CNPs can be recommended for developing active food packaging.

Keywords: Active food packaging; Cellulose nanoparticles; Chemical isolation methods; Morphological features; Palm kernel meal.