Journal of Biosystems Engineering

Korean Society for Agricultural Machinery (한국농업기계학회)
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Performance Evaluation of Batch Pulp Digester using By-product (Sheath) from Bamboo Laminate Production

  • Received : 2016.07.27
  • Accepted : 2018.08.24
  • Published : 2018.12.01
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Abstract

Purpose: Self-sufficiency in paper production is desired in Nigeria. This study was aimed at evaluating the performance of a locally fabricated batch pulp digester. Methods: The pulp yields of sheaths generated as waste in the production of bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris) laminates were determined at different liquor concentrations and treatment time after preliminary experiments to ascertain the conditions under which the sheath started to pulp. Moreover, the optimum pulping conditions and fiber characteristics were determined and estimated, respectively, to ascertain the pulp fiber suitability for paper production. Results: An optimum pulp yield of 65.1% was obtained at 50% NaOH and 25% $Na_2S$ liquor concentration (w/w) when the cooking time was 4 h. The results of fiber characterization of the pulp indicated an average fiber length of 2.19 mm with a low Runkel ratio of 1.63, both of which signify the suitability of the pulp for medium quality paper production. Conclusions: Softwood pulp can be blended with the fibers to improve the strength of the produced paper; further investigation should be carried out to use other non-woody plants for pulp and papermaking.

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