Kinetic Modeling of Pulp Production from Plantain Trunk

Abstract

Plantain pseudostem has high content of lignocellulose used for production of pulp. But ironically, this resource is unexploited, with plantain stem becoming a common domestic waste in many parts of the world. The present work provides a kinetic model based on the kraft process from experimental determination of the rate of delignification reaction of plantain stem aimed at its application for pulp making and eventual paper production. Objectives of the work are twofold: firstly, to create an alternative raw material to wood for pulp production given the dwindling wood resources world – over and secondly, as a means of environmental waste management and control. The Arrhenius kinetic model was used to find the rate constant for the process with precise determination of its activation energy and pre – exponential factor. Results of study showed that Plantain (musa acuminate) is similar in chemical composition and morphology, but has higher amounts of cellulose (which is the major substance in pulping) than banana (musa pradisiaca). Plantain pseudostem is therefore highly recommended as an alternative source of raw material to wood for pulping production.