Synthesis and Characterization of Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose from Sansevieria trifasciata as an Alternative Raw...

Capsules are pharmaceutical preparations that are enclosed in hard or soft capsule shells made of gelatin. Because gelatin is typically generated from non-halal materials, there is a need for alternative raw materials for making capsule shells, one of which is carboxymethyl cellulose (Na-CMC), which is synthesized from cellulose.

This study aims to find alternative raw materials for the manufacture of capsule shells from cellulose-containing Sansevieria trifasciata leaves. Then, the isolated cellulose was treated with sodium Na-CMC using the alkalization and carboxymethylation methods.

The cellulose that was produced fulfills the requirements for continuing the synthesis of Na-CMC. The yield of Na-CMC produced was 83.83%, with a pH of 6; dispersed in water and insoluble in ethanol and ether; a degree of substitution of 0.83; and a water content of 12%. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy study results show the presence of functional groups such as O-H at 3332 cm^-1, C-H at 2930 cm^-1, C=C at 2050 cm^-1, O-Na at 1588.82 cm^-1, and C-O at 1020.16 cm^-1. The resulting capsule shell has the following properties: transparency, a slightly cream color, a somewhat firm texture, no odor, and a moisture content of 20%.

As a result, it is possible to establish that Na-CMC from the S. trifasciata leaves can be used as a raw material for capsule shells.