Lignin-containing Microfibrillated Cellulose Prepared from Corncob Residue via Calcium Hydroxide Co-grinding and Its Application in Paper Reinforcement

keywords:corncob residue  microfibrillated cellulose  calcium hydroxide  co-grinding  paper reinforcement

Abstract:In this study, lignin-containing microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) was prepared from corncob residue after xylose extraction via co-grinding with calcium hydroxide. The product was then compared with the MFC obtained by direct grinding and applied to strengthen paper. The chemical composition and morphological structure analysis results showed that the corncob residue can be used to prepare lignin-containing MFC and does not require further purification. Moreover, the co-grinding with calcium hydroxide is easier to fibrillate corncob residue. The MFC obtained by co-grinding with calcium hydroxide had a higher aspect ratio, and its surface was coated with calcium carbonate nanoparticles. MFCs obtained by both the methods mentioned above had an obvious strengthening effect on paper. Compared with the paper without MFC, the tensile index, elongation, burst index, and folding strength of the paper with MFC obtained by co-grinding with calcium hydroxide significantly increased by 17.5%, 22.1%, 19.5%, and 157.1%, respectively. This study provides a novel idea for the utilization of corncob residue, which may enhance the value and promote the comprehensive utilization of corn by-products.