A holocellulose air filter with highly efficient formaldehyde adsorption prepared via low temperature pulping and partial dissolving from corn stalks

Emissions of particulate matter (PM) originating from industrial and agricultural incineration had emerged as a significant public health concern. Furthermore, the considerable annual production of straw remains underutilized, particularly in China. In this study, we proposed a novel approach for holocellulose air filter production from corn stalks via low-temperature anthraquinone pulping, partial dissolving, and high-speed shear-induced regeneration. About 61.40–78.23 % of hemicellulose in corn stalks was retained in holocellulose, furthermore, the delignification rate was up to 81.63–92.51 % after low temperature (<100 °C) alkaline exactment. Subsequently, holocellulose air filters (RHF) were prepared through regeneration with high-speed shear induced (25,000 rpm) and freeze-drying. The final air filters contained approximately 8.56–12.4 % hemicellulose, exhibiting a substantial adsorption capacity for low molecules such as formaldehyde. The results revealed remarkably low PM 2.5 penetration ratio (0.12 %) and pressure drop (14.3 Pa) of the air filter, while exhibiting a remarkable formaldehyde adsorption capacity of 54.5 mg/g. Moreover, the characters of high crystallinity index and robust micro/nano-structure of regenerated cellulose were obtained. This study introduced an innovative and facile strategy for gaseous formaldehyde adsorption and introduced novel solutions for agricultural waste utilization.