Abstract. Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is a versatile polysaccharide derivative with widespread applications in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. In this study, we present a novel synthesis method for CMC utilizing a suspension approach based on microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and nanocellulose (NC). The suspension method offers several advantages, including simplified processing, reduced reaction times, and improved product uniformity compared to traditional methods. The synthesis process involves the conversion of MCC and NC into CMC through carboxymethylation reactions mediated by sodium hydroxide and monochloroacetic acid. We investigate the influence of reaction parameters, such as reaction time, temperature, and reactant concentrations, on the degree of substitution (DS). Characterization techniques, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), are employed to analyze the chemical structure and crystalline properties of the synthesized CMC. Our results demonstrate that the suspension method facilitates efficient carboxymethylation of MCC and NC, yielding CMC suspensions with tunable DS values and tailored rheological behaviors. Moreover, the incorporation of NC enhances the mechanical properties and stability of the CMC suspensions, offering potential advantages for applications requiring enhanced performance characteristics. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the synthesis of CMC via the suspension method using MCC and NC as precursors, highlighting its potential for the development of functional cellulose-based materials with tailored properties for various industrial applications.
Key words. nanocellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, degree of polymerization, degree of substitution, monochloroacetic acid.
DOI: http://uzpolymerjournal.com/articles/article.php?id=240107
Citation: Mamadiyorov B.N., Ergashev D.J, Atakhanov A.A., OPTIMIZED SYNTHESIS OF CARBOXYMETHYL CELLULOSE FROM MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE AND NANOCELLULOSE VIA SUSPENSION METHOD. Uzbekistan Journal of Polymers, Vol. 3(1) 2024: pp.73-82. DOI: http://uzpolymerjournal.com/articles/article.php?id=240107