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Old Corrugated Container (OCC) Cardboard Material: An Alternative Source for Obtaining Microfibrillated Cellulose

ABSTRACT Nowadays, there is a growing interest in lignocellulosic nanoscale materials produced from alternative recycled sources because of their attractive physical, chemical, and mechanical properties, as well as their ecological contribution. In this work, MFC preparation through mechanical fibrillation using lignocellulosic fibers from OCC cardboard was investigated. Also, the effect of alkaline pulping and bleaching treatments was also evaluated in a comparative study. The fibers’ and microfibers’ morphology were determined by light microscopy, SEM, and TEM. The structural and chemical characterizations of the samples were inspected by intrinsic viscosity, FTIR, and XRD. The chemical treatment improved effects on the kappa number, morphology, and crystallinity of the lignocellulosic materials. The fibrillation process in a colloidal mill was possible using unbleached OCC fibers, contributing to a more efficient and environmentally friendly procedure. The OCC is a promising alternative source to produce microfibrillated cellulose with suitable properties and high potential in renewable material applications.