Sintesis Membran Selulosa Asetat dari Nata De Coco dengan Penambahan Diklorometana menggunakan Metode Inversi Fasa

Abstract

This study aims to synthesize and characterize cellulose acetate membranes derived from nata de coco with the addition of dichloromethane (DCM) using the phase inversion method. Nata de coco was selected due to its high microbial cellulose content, offering strong mechanical properties, fine fiber structure, and excellent biodegradability. The cellulose was modified through an acetylation process using glacial acetic acid, acetic anhydride, and sulfuric acid as a catalyst. The resulting cellulose acetate was then mixed with DCM and cast into membranes using a phase inversion technique involving immersion in a cold water coagulation bath. The membrane was characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and swelling tests. FT-IR analysis confirmed the formation of carbonyl (C=O) groups, indicating successful acetylation and the production of cellulose acetate. SEM images revealed that the addition of DCM resulted in uniform pore formation and improved membrane surface structure, enhancing flexibility and reducing brittleness. A brief evaporation step prior to coagulation allowed the membrane to detach cleanly from the glass plate, forming layered structures. Swelling test results showed a high water absorption capacity, indicating hydrophilic properties desirable for aqueous separation applications. Furthermore, DCM acted as a plasticizer, improving the elasticity and physical stability of the membrane. Overall, this research demonstrates that cellulose acetate membranes synthesized from nata de coco and modified with dichloromethane show strong potential as eco-friendly filtration materials, with favorable morphology, flexibility, and water affinity suitable for separation technologies.