Activated Biopolymers from Trigona Honeycomb Waste: Structural Characterization and Potential for Sustainable Agricultural Materials
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11113/mjfas.v22n4.5503Keywords:
Trigona honeycomb waste, Natural biopolymer, Chemical activation, Physicochemical characterization, Biomass valorizationAbstract
Abstract This study investigates the isolation, activation, and physicochemical characterization of natural biopolymers derived from Trigona honeycomb waste, an underutilized biomass resource with potential value-added applications. The biopolymer was extracted through sequential processes including acid hydrolysis, chlorination, alkaline treatment, and bleaching, followed by chemical activation using a mixed solution of sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) and acetic acid (CH₃COOH). Structural and compositional analyses were conducted using XRF, XRD, FTIR, and SEM.
XRF results revealed that calcium (Ca) is the dominant component, increasing from 46.6% before activation to 54.8% after activation, indicating enhanced mineral exposure due to structural modification. XRD patterns showed characteristic diffraction peaks at 2θ ≈ 11.65°, 14.81°, 15.99°, 20.81°, and 23.23°, confirming a semi-crystalline Type I biopolymer structure. FTIR spectra identified functional groups typical of natural biopolymers, including hydroxyl (-OH), aliphatic C–H, and C–O–C bonds, suggesting the presence of polysaccharide-based structures. SEM images demonstrated significant morphological changes after activation, with increased surface roughness and the formation of microcavities, which are associated with higher surface area.
These findings indicate that chemical activation significantly alters both the structural and surface properties of the biopolymer, enhancing its potential as a functional biomass precursor. The improved physicochemical characteristics suggest its prospective application in controlled nutrient delivery systems, particularly for sustainable agricultural materials.
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