Innovative Sustainable Cellulose Pulp From Lygeum spartum and Recycled Paper: Development and Characterization

The aim of this study was to develop and characterize paper made from Lygeum spartum cellulose pulp as a sustainable alternative to wood pulp. Cellulose is a stable substance that is relatively resistant to water, acids, and diluted alkalis. Several formulations of paper pulp were developed using virgin cellulose microfibers extracted from the sustainable plant Spart, while others incorporated recycled paper. Various characterization techniques were employed, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and mechanical property testing. The mechanical barrier properties of Spart paper were enhanced by the incorporation of additives, leading to increases of 18.57%, 16.50%, and 40% in tensile, burst, and tear indices, respectively. FTIR results indicated surface modifications, with increased interaction and bond formation between fibers and additives, resulting in improved mechanical properties. Additionally, XRD analysis confirmed a cellulose I structure. SEM analysis revealed the presence of additives in recycled paper, with similar observations in Spart pulp mixed with varying amounts of additives. These findings suggest that Spart pulp has strong potential as a sustainable alternative to wood-based paper.