Biogenic silica-based microparticles obtained as a sub-product of the nanocellulose extraction process from pineapple peels

Sci Rep. 2018 Jul 10;8(1):10417. doi: 10.1038/s41598-018-28444-4.

Abstract

Silica in plant tissues has been suggested as a component for enhancing mechanical properties, and as a physical barrier. Pineapples present in their shell and bracts rosette-like microparticles that could be associated to biogenic silica. In this study, we show for the first time that silica-based microparticles are co-purified during the extraction process of nanocellulose from pineapple (Ananas comosus). This shows that vegetable biomass could be an underappreciated source, not only for nanocellulose, but also for a highly valuable sub-product, like 10 µm biogenic rosette-like silica-based microparticles. The recovery yield obtained was 7.2 wt.%; based on the dried initial solid. Due to their size and morphology, the microparticles have potential applications as reinforcement in adhesives, polymer composites, in the biomedical field, and even as a source of silica for fertilizers.

MeSH terms

  • Adhesives / chemistry
  • Ananas / chemistry*
  • Cell-Derived Microparticles / chemistry*
  • Cellulose / chemistry*
  • Nanocomposites / chemistry*
  • Polymers / chemistry
  • Silicon Dioxide / chemistry

Substances

  • Adhesives
  • Polymers
  • Silicon Dioxide
  • Cellulose