Exploring Oil Palm Biomass: Isolation of Cellulose and Carboxymethylation Surface Modification

Cellulose and its nano-sized form are natural polysaccharides known for their non-toxic, biodegradable, and biocompatible properties. These biopolymers hold immense potential for creating higher-value products from underutilized or discarded residues of oil palm industries. The recovery of cellulose and nanocellulose from oil palm biomass, along with their conversion into carboxymethyl-based cellulose through mercerization and etherification, is discussed as methods to enhance value creation and minimize environmental impact. This chapter also highlights the significance of leveraging oil palm biomass for sustainable purposes, emphasizing the extraction process and the subsequent modification of cellulose for various applications in industries.