Abstract
In this study, perennial fast growth Napier grass fibers were
used for pulp and papermaking. Chlorination and alkaline processes
were carried out using sodium chlorite and sodium hydroxide
respectively, for pulp extraction from Napier grass. Detailed
chemical composition analysis of the Napier grass fibers and the
extracted pulp was carried out and a comparison with other perennial
grasses was made. The extracted fibers and pulp obtained
from Napier grass were characterized using scanning electron
microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The
physical, optical, and mechanical properties of Napier grass pulp
handmade paper sheets produced in the laboratory were investigated
by finding the opacity, brightness, tensile index, breaking
length, and burst index. Handmade paper sheets made from
Napier grass pulp were compared to paper made from other
perennial grasses. The superior properties of paper produced from
Napier grass pulp indicate the suitability of Napier grass as an
alternative non-wood source for papermaking.