Development and quality assessment of handmade papers using underutilized agro based natural fibres

Abstract

Management of crop residue for industrial application is an upcoming researchable issue for sustainable environment. Locally available eco-friendly renewable resources viz., sugarcane bagasse, sisal fibre and maize husk have been used for development of handmade papers along with cotton rags and waste paper with different blend proportions. Among the papers, bagasse/cotton (60:40) handmade paper possessed significantly greater thickness, more uneven surface, low folding endurance with greater bursting and tears strength. Further, bursting, tear and tensile strength was found to be greater in bagasse/sisal/cotton (40:30:30) handmade paper followed by bagasse/ waste paper/ cotton paper which can be used as packaging materials to disposable paper plates. Effective management and utilization of agriculture crop residue with other cellulosic waste can be aptly suitable for production of eco friendly handmade papers which will provide sustainable enterprise for rural artisans.