Extraction of cellulose nano-crystals from Polyalthia longifolia and Terminalia catappa leaf litter and the synthesis of low-cost CNC-based hydrogel for articular cartilage

Due to the rise in demand for biodegradable and renewable materials, synthesis of CNCs from lignocellulosic biomass opens up a new avenue creation application novel materials nanotechnology. The CNC-based hydrogels appear be favorable material various applications due their excellent mechanical strength, biodegradability, biocompatibility, low toxicity. This work aimed utilize fallen leaves extraction Cellulose Nano-crystals (CNC) Polyalthia longifolia Terminalia catappa leaf litter. Leaves mainly consist cellulose hence used nanocellulose. Alkali treatment was performed with aqueous sodium hydroxide, followed by bleaching chlorite. Sulphuric acid hydrolysis CNC. morphology, structure, functional groups, crystallinity retrieved CNC were studied using Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), Fourier Transformed Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). shape rod-like both P. T. CNC’s index enhanced 72.40% 73.95%, respectively. TEM micrographs revealed that impurities present on fibres successfully removed alkali subsequent further purified fibres, leaving behind mostly while hemicellulose lignin removed, which FTIR spectra. obtained preparation hydrogel cross-linking natural polymers like alginate gelatin. A Freeze-thawing process carried out fabrication hydrogel. resulting can as substitute cartilage applications.