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Abstract

This study explores the use of agricultural residues from banana and maize plants as sustainable raw materials for pulp and paper production. The research demonstrates that these non-wood fibers yield good quality pulp with favorable mechanical and optical properties, making them suitable for commercial applications. Overall, the findings support the repurposing of agro-waste, promoting sustainability and rural employment.

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12biog1anishant
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6 views1 page

Abstract

This study explores the use of agricultural residues from banana and maize plants as sustainable raw materials for pulp and paper production. The research demonstrates that these non-wood fibers yield good quality pulp with favorable mechanical and optical properties, making them suitable for commercial applications. Overall, the findings support the repurposing of agro-waste, promoting sustainability and rural employment.

Uploaded by

12biog1anishant
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Production of Paper from Musa Paradisiaca Linn and Zea Mays L.

A Nishant, Tamil Arivan R, Vicas Pandi R


[Link] Chemical Engineering
Under guidance of Mr P. Babu, [Link]
Department of Chemical Engineering
COIMBATORE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

ABSTRACT

This study investigates the potential of agricultural residues from Musa paradisiaca
Linn. (banana plant) and Zea mays L. (maize plant) as eco-friendly raw materials for pulp and
paper production. Traditional wood-based papermaking is highly resource-intensive and
contributes to deforestation. In contrast, banana pseudostems and maize stalks are readily
available post-harvest wastes, offering a sustainable lignocellulosic source. The process
included drying, alkali treatment, chemical pulping with white liquor, and bleaching using
hydrogen peroxide. Handmade paper sheets were produced using both manual and Fourdrinier
methods.

Cellulose yields were 19.85% for banana and 17.2% for maize. The resulting pulp
showed good properties, including a freeness of 26.4°SR, bulk of 1.79 cc/g, and a breaking
length of 4500 m, indicating strong fiber bonding. Mechanical properties such as tear factor
(171) and burst factor (30) affirm its potential for practical uses like packaging. Optical
characteristics—brightness (32.2%) and yellowness index (40.6)—suggest a natural, earthy
appearance ideal for sustainable branding. The grammage of 123.96 g/m² makes it suitable for
printing and commercial applications. This research demonstrates that agro-waste from banana
and maize can be effectively repurposed, supporting sustainability, rural employment, and
agro-industrial waste reduction.

Keywords: Non-wood fibers, Musa paradisiaca Linn, Zea mays L, pulp and paper, agro-waste
utilization, sustainable materials, cellulose extraction, handmade paper, eco-friendly
packaging.

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