Synthesis of Superabsorbent Hydrogels from Extracted Cellulose of Pineapple (Ananas Comosus) Leaf Fibers via Copolymerization with Acrylamide for Prospective Agricultural Application

The need for sustainable soil amendment materials for the increased production of agricultural products has been the motivation of both researchers and scientists. This study aimed to synthesize superabsorbent hydrogels from cellulose of pineapple leaf fibers via copolymerization with acrylamide. Three formulations were synthesized (2.5, 5, and 7.5% cellulose) and their water retention properties, namely, gel fraction, swelling, deswelling, and reswelling rate were investigated. The effect of cellulose concentration on the properties was investigated by measuring the increase in mass of the hydrogel over time when immersed in water. The same procedure was employed for the evaluation of the effect of the ionic strength of the external solution on the properties by immersion in 0.5, 1, and 1.5 M NaCl solution. Lastly, the effect of hydrogel on the moisture retention of loam soil was determined by mixing the soil with 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3% hydrogel, adding water, and measuring the weight loss. The results showed that the hydrogel with 5% cellulose exhibited the highest values for the water retention properties. The ionic strength of the external solution was found to have a significant effect on the properties. Lastly, the addition of hydrogel on loam soil increased the water retention capacity of the soil with the 0.3% hydrogel yielding the slowest rate of water loss.