Preparation of cellulose nanocrystals and carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals from borer powder of bamboo

Carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals (CCN) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were prepared from borer powder of bamboo by two different kinds of procedures: one-step approach with ammonium persulfate for CCN and two-step approach with sulfuric acid for CNC. The obtained samples were characterizated by transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis. The results show that the particles of CCN and CNC present spherical shape with diameters of 20-50 and 20-70 nm, respectively. The crystallinity of CCN and CNC is significantly improved after a series of chemical treatment, which is up to 62.75 and 69.84 %, respectively. The research indicates that the borer powder from bamboo could be an excellent raw material for manufacturing CNC in a low-cost and environmental-friendly way. Rational and sustainable utilization of the bamboo borer powder to develop new bioproducts holds great potential value for industry and offers many benefits and opportunities.