<![CDATA[Peanut shell waste is abundant in Indonesia and contains high cellulose content; however, its use in the synthesis of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (Na-CMC) has been minimally explored. Previous studies have primarily used biomass such as loofah fibers, corn stalks, and oil palm fibers, leaving a research gap in evaluating peanut shells as an alternative cellulose source. This study addresses that gap by examining how NaOH concentration and Na-MCA mass influence the quality of Na-CMC derived from peanut shell waste. Na-CMC was synthesized through alkalization and carboxymethylation, preceded by pre-hydrolysis, delignification, and bleaching to enhance cellulose purity. Experimental variations focused on optimizing reagent levels to achieve high product quality. The optimal condition, 20 % NaOH and 7 g Na-MCA, yielded Na-CMC with 94.81 % purity and a degree of substitution (DS) of 1.2137. A DS above 1.2 indicates adequate substitution of cellulose hydroxyl groups, improving water solubility and functional performance, making the product suitable for industrial use in textiles, adhesives, and paper. FTIR analysis confirmed successful carboxymethylation through the presence of –OH, –COO⁻, and –CH₂ groups. Excess reagent levels reduced purity and DS due to side reactions and cellulose degradation. This study demonstrates the potential of peanut shells as a sustainable, low-cost raw material for Na-CMC. It provides scientific insight into the optimization of Na-CMC synthesis from agricultural waste.]]>
