One-path preparation of carboxymethylcellulose from bamboo and its application in all-biodegradable films

The advent of all-biodegradable films was heralded as a pivotal technological breakthrough, instrumental for advancing environmental protection and promoting sustainable development. This research introduced a highly efficient and groundbreaking methodology for fabricating eco-conscious carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), tailored specifically for integration into all-biodegradable films. One-path preparation of CMC, employing ecologically sustainable bamboo as the raw material, was accomplished through environmentally friendly pulping and carboxymethylation processes, using the ethanol-water system as a crucial supporting medium. An exhaustive analysis was conducted on the chemical composition, solution viscosity, Zeta potential, morphological, textural structural, crystallinity, and thermal degradation of the CMC. The results revealed that the developed CMC D-CMC-4, derived from bamboo, exhibited a uniform composition and structural integrity, mirroring those of commercial CMC C-CMC. D-CMC-4 was characterized by an exceptionally high cellulose purity of 99.3 %, along with remarkable properties such as a viscosity of 388 mPa·s and a Zeta potential of −16.5 mV. Moreover, the D-CMC-4 films unequivocally demonstrated enhanced performance characteristics, especially in terms of solubility and biodegradability. The resulting product was eminently suitable for application in biodegradable packaging films.