DOI: https://doi.org/10.14710/jksa.29.2.%25p

Synthesis of a Slow-Release Fertilizer Composite Based on Microcrystalline Cellulose from Coconut Husk Waste

1Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences and Mathematics, University of Bengkulu, Bengkulu, Indonesia

2Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences and Mathematics, University of Bengkulu, Bengkulu, Indonesia

3Department of Agricultural Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Bengkulu, Bengkulu, Indonesia

Received: 15 Dec 2025; Revised: 14 Feb 2026; Accepted: 20 Feb 2026; Published: 14 Mar 2026.
Open Access Copyright 2026 Jurnal Kimia Sains dan Aplikasi under http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0.

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Abstract
This study reports the synthesis and evaluation of a biodegradable slow-release fertilizer based on microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) extracted from coconut husk waste from Seluma Regency, Bengkulu Province. MCC was prepared through sequential acid washing, alkaline delignification, bleaching, and acid hydrolysis. A composite fertilizer was synthesized by incorporating maleate-containing polymer segments into MCC through limited radical grafting and/or esterification, followed by incorporation of polydihydroxymethylurea potassium phosphate (PDMU–KP) using citric acid as an interaction agent. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis indicates the presence of carbonyl, amide, and phosphate-related functional groups associated with the composite structure. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a dense and agglomerated composite morphology with a rough, layered surface and crystalline aggregates, while energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis verified the presence of C, N, O, P, and K elements within the copolymer matrix. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed a reduction in cellulose crystallinity after copolymerization, indicating the formation of a polymer composite. Nutrient release tests conducted in distilled water for 28 days demonstrated controlled and differential release behavior governed by polymer swelling and matrix relaxation processes. Phosphate exhibited a maximum release concentration of 0.398 mg/L on day 7, followed by a gradual decrease to 0.058 mg/L by day 28. In contrast, nitrogen release occurred more gradually, reaching a maximum concentration of approximately 3.08 mg/L on day 14 before declining at later stages. These results indicate that the MCC-g-PMA/PDMU–KP copolymer provides sustained nutrient release with distinct release maxima for phosphorus and nitrogen, highlighting its potential as a cellulose-based slow-release fertilizer designed to improve nutrient use efficiency and reduce nutrient losses, derived from locally available coconut husk waste.

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Keywords: Microcrystalline cellulose; Coconut coir waste; Slow-release fertilizer; Biopolymer composite; Nutrient efficiency
Funding: FMIPA Universitas Bengkulu under contract 4540/UN30.12/HK/2025

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