Characterization of non-treated & chemically treated sawdust (oil palm trunk & rubber wood)

The characterization and the degree of crystallinity distinguish the difference between the y of cellulose were identified to untreated and the chemically treated sawdust of Rubber wood (Hevea brasiliensis sp) and Oil Palm trunk (Elaeis guineensis sp). The chemicals that were used to modify the sawdust are Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH). Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to measure the changes in the contents of sawdust and surface crystallinity of cellulose resulting from the chemical treatment on the sawdust. The techniques revealed changes in the contents of both type of sawdust and decrease in the crystallinity index (CI) of cellulose after the treatment on the sawdust. These results were correlated with the reduction of the crystalline structure of the sawdust, and consequently, to the enhancement of the amorphous fractions. The results from the treatment of NaOH shows a different outcome since both of this chemical are completely different. The results also proved that the proposed methods may be very functional in breaking the crystalline contents of the sawdust. The methodology can be applied in the field of preservation and production of wooden objects in the furniture and wood industry.