Production and Characterization of Variety Papers from Agrowastes using Organosolv Pulping Method

In this study, the chemical composition of each agrowaste sample was analysed for cellulose, lignin, ash, and moisture content. Three agrowaste samples—corn husk, pineapple crown, and plantain stalk—were sun-dried and chipped for easier digestion. The effect of the catalyst, H₂SO₄, was assessed by pulping 10g of each sample with 0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% H₂SO₄. At the end of the experiment, three types of paper were produced from the different agrowaste samples; each of them demonstrates good brightness. The mechanical properties of the pulp were measured, yielding the following results for corn husks (grammage: 356.25 g/m², thickness: 0.35 mm, tensile strength: 25.675 kN/m², tear index: 2.88 Nm²/g, modulus of elasticity: 151.03 kN/m², and elongation at break: 3.4mm), for pineapple crown (grammage: 231.25 g/m², thickness: 0.13 mm, tensile strength: 21.05 kN/m², tear index: 3.64 Nm²/g, modulus of elasticity: 155.93 kN/m², elongation at break: 2.2 mm), and for plantain stalk (grammage: 325.25 g/m², thickness: 0.07 mm, tensile strength: 23.625 kN/m², tear index: 2.91 Nm²/g, modulus of elasticity: 393.75 kN/m², and elongation at break: 1.20 mm). In summary, agrowastes present a feasible alternative to wood for papermaking. The Acetosolv pulping method yields a higher amount of pulp while minimizing environmental impact.