The paper properties of Kenaf from APMP pulping process using RSM / Syaiedeen Awang Rani

In this particular research, the kenaf stalk variety of V 36 has been pulped using Alkaline
Peroxide Mechanical Pulping (APMP). Three pulping parameters were studied such as
the percentages of hydrogen peroxide, sodium hydroxide and soaking time. The
regression equation was obtained to determine the fitness of the quadratic model. The
range of the sodium hydroxide (NaOH) used was between 6% to 12% and the hydrogen
peroxide (H2O2) in 30% concentration was in range 5% to 10%. The soaking time was set
between 45 and 90 minutes. The temperature was at 70 oC constant at each experimental
runs. The design of experiment (DOE) was analyzed and determined to produce 17
experimental design runs. The statistical analysis and experimental runs was done by
using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and by applying Design Expert 6. The
paper properties studied were physical properties such as tensile, tear and burst strength.
The optical properties were brightness and opacity. The optimum condition for the
pulping parameter that has been obtained was: H2O2 at 8.33%, NaOH at 6.05% and
soaking time at 55.75 minutes. The actual responses produced were at 25.05Nm2/g for
tensile index17.32mNm2/g for the tear index, and 3.6433kPam2/g for the burst index,
61.49% for the brightness percentages and 89.7617% for the opacity percentages.