Evaluation of calcium oxide and calcium hydroxide for the obtaining of cellulose fiber

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the use of calcium oxide and calcium hydroxide as an alternative reagent in the extraction of cellulose fiber.

Design/methodology/approach: Sugarcane straw of the variety Méx 69-290 (Saccharum spp.), dry and with a size of 40 mm in length, was used. For the extraction of the fiber, three reagents were evaluated, sodium hydroxide at 10%, calcium hydroxide at 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30%, calcium oxide at 5, 7.5 and 10%. The 9 treatments were performed using the completely randomized design with 5 and 4 repetitions, respectively. The method used to extract the cellulose fiber was the artisanal one and 100 g of dry straw was used for each process.

Results: The obtaining of cellulose fiber and the yield of cellulose fiber with calcium hydroxide at a concentration higher than 25% was higher than that obtained with 10% sodium hydroxide. The characteristics of the sheets formed with the cellulose fiber extracted with 25% calcium hydroxide and 10% sodium hydroxide were similar and their quality. With the cellulose fiber obtained from calcium hydroxide at 25 and 30%, it was possible to make artisanal vessels with good consistency and beauty.

Limitations of the study / implications: The extraction of cellulose fiber with calcium hydroxide generates greater rejection of straw.

Findings / conclusions: The cellulose fiber extracted with calcium hydroxide allows the production of artisanal paper and vessels.