Chemical pulp from corn stalks
Kateřina Hájková1, Tereza Jurczyková1, Michaela Filipi2
1Czech University of Life Science Prague, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Department of Wood Processing and Biomaterials, Kamýcká 1176, 165 21 Prague, Czech Republic.
Biotechnology Reports (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
|February 27, 2023
Summary
This study chemically processed corn stalks using nitrate-alkaline and soda pulping methods. Researchers analyzed pulp composition and handsheet properties, evaluating cellulose and lignin content for potential applications.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Corn stalks are an abundant agricultural residue.
- Valorization of lignocellulosic biomass is crucial for sustainable practices.
- Understanding corn stalk composition is key for effective processing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the chemical pulping of corn stalks.
- To compare nitrate-alkaline and soda pulping methods.
- To characterize the resulting pulp and paper properties.
Main Methods:
- Chemical pulping of corn stalks using two distinct methods: nitrate-alkaline and soda pulping.
- Analysis of corn stalk composition, including cellulose, lignin, and extractives.
- Fabrication of handsheets from the produced pulp.
- Determination of pulp degree of polymerization, sedimentation rate, and physical strength properties.
Main Results:
- Pulping yielded materials with varying cellulose and lignin content.
- Handsheet properties, including strength, were measured.
- The degree of polymerization and sedimentation rate of the pulp were determined, indicating differences based on the pulping method.
Conclusions:
- Chemical pulping is a viable method for processing corn stalks.
- The choice of pulping method influences the final pulp and paper characteristics.
- Further research can optimize corn stalk utilization for various applications.
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