The Influence of Silica Fillers Based on Fly Ash Coal on the Absorption of Bacterial Cellulose Hydrogel

Oct 13, 2025 by thesweetdesigns.com 42 views

The Influence of Silica Fillers Based on Fly Ash Coal on the Absorption of Bacterial Cellulose Hydrogel

Introduction

Bacterial cellulose-based hydrogel (HSB) is a fascinating material with a wide range of applications, including in the medical field and water absorbers. The ability of HSB to absorb water is a crucial factor in its effectiveness, and researchers have been exploring ways to enhance this property. One approach is to add silica as a filler to the hydrogel, which has been shown to improve its water absorption capacity. In this study, we investigated the effect of silica fillers based on fly ash coal on the absorption of bacterial cellulose hydrogel.

Materials and Methods

The process of making HSB involves cross-linking bacterial cellulose (SB) with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and NaOH. In this study, we used a 6:8 ratio of NaOH to SB. Additionally, silica was added to the mixture, along with acrylic acid monomers (AA), Potassium Persulfate (KPS) initiator, and N, N'-methylene bisacrylamide (MBA) as a cross-linker. The variations in silica addition were 0%, 20%, and 30%. After synthesis, the resulting HSB was analyzed to determine its water absorption capacity, chemical structure, surface morphology, and thermal resistance.

Results

The results of this study showed that the addition of silica significantly improved the water absorption capacity of HSB. The HSB with 20% silica addition had the most optimum percentage of water absorption, which was 1290%. This indicates that silica plays a crucial role in increasing the ability of hydrogels to absorb water. Further analysis using Spectroscopy Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) revealed that the occurrence of cross-bonds between acrylic acid (AA) and N, N'-methylene bisacrylamide (MBA). The absorption peak in the wave number 1555 cm-1 shows the presence of a secondary aliphatic amine group (n-H), as well as the presence of Si-OH groups originating from silica as fillers in the wave number 1039 cm-1.

Surface Morphology and Thermal Resistance

The surface morphology of HSB with 30% silica addition showed rough surface characteristics and a high density, which can contribute to increased absorption. Observation using Electron Microscopy (SEM) scanning provided a clear picture of differences in surface texture at various silica concentrations added. The thermal resistance test using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) showed that HSB with the addition of 30% silica has good thermal stability, with a decomposition point at 494 ° C. This indicates that the hydrogel produced is not only effective in absorbing water but also has good resistance to high temperatures, which is very important for applications in various fields.

Conclusion

The addition of silica based on fly ash coal is proven to be significant in increasing the absorption and thermal stability of bacterial cellulose hydrogel. This study provides new insights in the development of hydrogel material that is more effective and efficient, which can be utilized in various applications, including in the fields of medical, environment, and agriculture. Silica's involvement as a filler also opens new opportunities for further research on the development of environmentally friendly waste materials.

Future Directions

The findings of this study have significant implications for the development of hydrogel materials with improved water absorption capacity and thermal stability. Future research can focus on exploring the potential of silica fillers based on fly ash coal in other applications, such as in the development of biodegradable plastics and biomedical devices. Additionally, the study of the effects of silica fillers on the mechanical properties of hydrogel materials can provide valuable insights into their potential use in various industries.

Limitations and Challenges

While this study provides valuable insights into the effects of silica fillers based on fly ash coal on the absorption of bacterial cellulose hydrogel, there are several limitations and challenges that need to be addressed. One of the main challenges is the scalability of the production process, which can be a significant barrier to the commercialization of hydrogel materials. Additionally, the study of the environmental impact of silica fillers based on fly ash coal is essential to ensure that they are environmentally friendly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the addition of silica based on fly ash coal is a promising approach to enhance the absorption and thermal stability of bacterial cellulose hydrogel. This study provides new insights into the development of hydrogel materials with improved properties, which can be utilized in various applications. The findings of this study have significant implications for the development of environmentally friendly waste materials and can contribute to the creation of a more sustainable future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Influence of Silica Fillers Based on Fly Ash Coal on the Absorption of Bacterial Cellulose Hydrogel

Q: What is bacterial cellulose hydrogel (HSB)?

A: Bacterial cellulose hydrogel (HSB) is a fascinating material with a wide range of applications, including in the medical field and water absorbers. It is a type of hydrogel that is produced through the fermentation of bacteria, which produces a network of cellulose fibers that can absorb and retain large amounts of water.

Q: What is the role of silica fillers in HSB?

A: Silica fillers play a crucial role in enhancing the absorption capacity of HSB. The addition of silica fillers based on fly ash coal can improve the water absorption capacity of HSB, making it more effective in various applications.

Q: How does the addition of silica fillers affect the chemical structure of HSB?

A: The addition of silica fillers can affect the chemical structure of HSB by introducing new functional groups, such as Si-OH groups, which can interact with the cellulose fibers and improve the water absorption capacity of the hydrogel.

Q: What is the significance of the thermal resistance test in this study?

A: The thermal resistance test is an important aspect of this study, as it evaluates the ability of HSB to withstand high temperatures without decomposing. The results of this test show that HSB with the addition of 30% silica has good thermal stability, making it suitable for applications in various fields.

Q: What are the potential applications of HSB with improved absorption capacity and thermal stability?

A: The improved absorption capacity and thermal stability of HSB make it suitable for various applications, including in the medical field, water treatment, and agriculture. It can also be used as a biodegradable material in packaging and biomedical devices.

Q: What are the limitations and challenges of using silica fillers based on fly ash coal in HSB?

A: One of the main challenges is the scalability of the production process, which can be a significant barrier to the commercialization of HSB. Additionally, the study of the environmental impact of silica fillers based on fly ash coal is essential to ensure that they are environmentally friendly.

Q: What are the future directions for research on HSB with improved absorption capacity and thermal stability?

A: Future research can focus on exploring the potential of silica fillers based on fly ash coal in other applications, such as in the development of biodegradable plastics and biomedical devices. Additionally, the study of the effects of silica fillers on the mechanical properties of HSB can provide valuable insights into their potential use in various industries.

Q: What are the potential benefits of using HSB with improved absorption capacity and thermal stability?

A: The improved absorption capacity and thermal stability of HSB make it a promising material for various applications, including in the medical field, water treatment, and agriculture. It can also contribute to the creation of a more sustainable future by reducing the need for synthetic materials and minimizing waste.

Q: How can HSB with improved absorption capacity and thermal stability be produced on a large scale?

A: The production of HSB on a large scale requires the development of efficient and cost-effective methods for synthesizing the hydrogel. This can involve the use of advanced technologies, such as 3D printing and nanotechnology, to create complex structures and improve the mechanical properties of the hydrogel.

Q: What are the potential risks and challenges associated with the use of HSB with improved absorption capacity and thermal stability?

A: The use of HSB with improved absorption capacity and thermal stability may pose risks and challenges, such as the potential for contamination, toxicity, and environmental impact. Therefore, it is essential to conduct thorough safety assessments and environmental impact studies before commercializing the material.