Pulp Production from Pineapple Leaf Waste for Sustainable Paper Manufacturing

Abstract

The agricultural sector generates considerable amounts of waste annually, particularly during harvest periods. This study explored the potential of pineapple (Ananas comosus Merr.) leaves, a cellulose-rich byproduct of the pineapple industry, as a sustainable raw material for paper production. Mechanical strength, renewability, and cost-effectiveness make pineapple leaves a promising alternative for eco-friendly papermaking. The research focused on analyzing the chemical composition of the leaves, optimizing the pulping process, and evaluating the physical properties of the resulting paper. Utilizing TAPPI test methods, the chemical analysis revealed high concentrations of holo-cellulose (82.6%), alpha-cellulose (69.7%), and hemicellulose (12.9%), along with relatively low levels of solvent extractives (14.7%) and ash content (4.9%). The physical attributes of the produced paper include a tensile index of 50.1 Nm/g, a tear index of 6.33 mNm²/g, and a burst index of 3.31 kPa·m²/g. Additionally, the brightness of the unbleached paper was measured at 28.8 % ISO, which was increased to 69.7 % ISO after the bleaching process. Pineapple leaves possess more alpha cellulose than most other wood and non wood sources and paper made from these leaves has shown better physical properties.  These findings underscore the potential of pineapple leaves as a viable alternative pulp source for the paper industry, contributing to the advancement of sustainable and environmentally friendly manufacturing practices.