Characterization of hemicellulose‐carboxymethyl cellulose blend films: Enhancement of the physicochemical, thermal, and mechanical properties

Abstract

AbstractThis study investigates the influence of hemicellulose (Hc) on the chemical composition, thermal stability, mechanical properties, and morphology of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). Hc was isolated from oil palm trunk and then added into CMC at 10–30 wt% to prepare Hc‐CMC films via solution casting method. The addition of Hc resulted in reduced visual transparency, rendering the blend films opaque. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy verified the chemical interaction between Hc and CMC by revealing persistent and robust hydrogen bonding at specific spectral peaks (3483–3045 cm−1). The interaction between Hc and CMC was further indicated by the rougher interfacial structure as revealed in scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Thermal analysis via differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetry analysis indicated a decrement in thermal stability as Hc loadings increased in the CMC films. The highest tensile properties were observed in Hc‐CMC blend films at a 20 wt% Hc loading, showcasing notable enhancement about 23%. The 20 wt% Hc‐CMC blend films appeared as more suitable blending composition which having an enhanced physicochemical, thermal, and mechanical properties. This finding underscores its potential applicability in diverse industrial sectors, particularly in packaging applications.