Hidrogel selulosa serat batang pisang sebagai medium pertanian

Abstract

This study was conducted using the cross-linking agent poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as an urban agricultural media to help develop banana stem fiber hydrogels. Different concentrations of PEG (0%, 20%, 40% and 60%) were used to produce hydrogels. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to identify the chemical properties of the hydrogel, while Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) was used to identify the sample morphology. The Swelling Test was performed on all four different concentrations of PEG. The Degree of Swelling (DS) can see the ability of the hydrogel to absorb water, while to test the ability of the hydrogel to remove the water that has been absorbed, it is tested by desorption. 40% PEG through the swelling test showed a high degree of swelling compared to 0% PEG, but when at a concentration of 60% PEG, the degree of swelling decreased when compared to 40% PEG. The results of the desorption test after the first 4 hours were good where the weight of the hydrogel for all concentrations decreased, but for the concentration of 60%, the weight of the hydrogel did not show any change. This study led to the successful development of hydrogels based on banana stem fibers that showed good swelling levels for use as urban agricultural media.