3.3.2. SEM observation
Material properties are always linked to the structure at all levels which is the result of chemical composition, arrangement, and processing conditions. The surface and inner matrix of BC sheets were evaluated through SEM analysis, The microstructure of the bacterial cellulose produced under the optimal conditions selected in this work is similar to the one previously presented in the literature. The micrograph of the cross section shows that the micro-fibrils of BC membranes are randomly and loosely arranged with plenty of spaces among them. This arrangement of fibrils results in the formation of pores with different diameters on the surface and through the entire matrix of the BC sheets. In this microstructure the water molecules can be sandwiched between the pores of the thick fibrils, and these fibrils can act as a shield for water molecules. Hence, these fibrils display high water holding capacity, slow water release ability and quick water absorbing ability.