Bukti Korespondensi: Chemical Content and Anatomical Characteristics of Sago (Metroxylon sagu Rottb.) Frond from South Kalimantan, Indonesia

Abstract

CHEMICAL CONTENT AND ANATOMICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF SAGO (Metroxylon sagu Rottb.) FROND FROM SOUTH KALIMANTAN, INDONESIA. This research aims to evaluate the suitability of sago palm waste as a fiber raw material in terms of its chemical content and anatomical characteristics. The chemical content analysis of its extractive components, lignin, holocellulose, α-cellulose, and hemicellulose, was carried out using sago frond powder with a size of 40–60 mesh. Subsequently, functional group analysis was performed using Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR), while anatomical characterization was carried out by calculating the fiber length and diameter, lumen diameter, fiber derivative values, and wall thickness using a microscope connected to a digital camera. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) pictures were taken in different magnifications. The results showed that sago frond contains 31.6% α-cellulose and 38% lignin. The α-cellulose content was within the standard range for non-timber forest products, but the lignin content had a relatively high value. Based on the derived value, namely class II, sago frond can be used as pulp and paper raw materials. Keywords: Sago palm, Metroxylon sagu Rottb., anatomical characteristic, chemical content, FTIR