New method to produce microcellulose from industrial hemp proposed at UNN

Zakhar Markin, a first year master's student of the Advanced Engineering School at the UNN Faculty of Chemistry, is developing a new method for producing microcellulose from industrial hemp fibres.
Microcellulose (MCC) is an essential ingredient in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. MCC helps to reduce the caloric content of food and is a source of useful dietary fibres.

"Nowadays, microcellulose is obtained from wood, the content of useful components in it is low, and it requires harsh and energy-consuming extraction methods, which involve harmful emissions," said Zakhar Markin.

The young chemist's proposed method is based on the use of industrial hemp, a rapidly renewable source of raw materials.

"The industrial hemp cultivar has no narcotic effects on the human body and contains up to 70% cellulose, which can be extracted much more easily. The use of softer reagents will reduce the burden on the environment, increase the yield of the product and make it cheaper," the young researcher pointed out.

Zakhar Markin’s project was a finalist in the "UMNIK-2022" competition and received grant support in the amount of 500 thousand roubles. Seven other young scientists from Lobachevsky University received similar grant support.