Nano-hemicellulose

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Handbook of Biomass
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Abstract

Nano-hemicellulose (NHC) has gained significant attention recently due to its unique properties and promising applications in various fields. This abstract provides an overview of the extraction methods, structure, properties, and potential applications of NHC. The extraction of NHC involves the isolation of hemicellulose from lignocellulosic biomass, such as agricultural waste or wood residues. Several extraction techniques have been employed, including acid hydrolysis, enzymatic hydrolysis, and mechanical treatments. The choice of extraction method affects the yield, purity, and structure of NHC.

Regarding its structure, NHC exhibits a complex and heterogeneous composition, consisting of various sugar units, such as xylose, glucose, mannose, galactose, and arabinose. Hemicellulose’s physicochemical characteristics and applications are influenced by its molecular weight and degree of branching. NHC possesses remarkable properties that make it an attractive material for various applications. It exhibits high tensile strength, excellent film-forming ability, good thermal stability, and biodegradability. Additionally, its unique surface chemistry allows for functionalization, enabling the incorporation of other materials and modifying its properties. The applications of NHC span multiple fields. Materials science can be used as a reinforcing agent in biocomposites, films, coatings, and nanocomposites. Its excellent film-forming properties make it suitable for packaging materials and barrier films. Furthermore, NHC shows potential as a stabilizer, emulsifier, and encapsulating agent in the food and pharmaceutical industries. In summary, NHC holds excellent promise as a renewable and sustainable material. Its extraction, structure, properties, and applications have been extensively studied, demonstrating its potential for use in various industries. Further research is needed to optimize extraction techniques, improve understanding of its structure-function relationship, and explore new applications for this magnetic nanomaterial.

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Correspondence to P. V. Sandhya .

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Sandhya, P.V. (2024). Nano-hemicellulose. In: Thomas, S., Hosur, M., Pasquini, D., Jose Chirayil, C. (eds) Handbook of Biomass. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-99-6727-8_28

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