Paper Making from Banana Pseudo-Stem: Characterization and Comparison

Abstract

This study deals with the determination of paper-making potentialities of banana pseudo-stems growing in Thailand. Chlorine dioxide (Do and D1) and extraction (Ep) treatments were all performed in sealed plastic bags in a thermostatically controlled water bath. Unbleached banana kraft pulp in the kappa number range of 23–28 was not easy to bleach with three-stage sequence of D0-EP-D1. The determination of mechanical properties of standard paper after mild beating in the laboratory is discussed as is the interpretation of the results. As an indication of potential paper-making properties, they are important for the pulp producer in the control of fiber characteristics. The brightness was achieved at 45% ISO, with a viscosity level at 585 mL/g. Drainage of pulp was extremely slow and paper-making properties were characterized by low strength, low bulk, rough surface, and extremely poor optical properties.