Dhaincha-a Non-Wood Fibrous Plant for Pulp and Paper

Abstract

Sesbania aculeata Baker, popularly known as Dhaincha was studied for biological yield under different crop geometry and nitrogen requirement. The influence of agronomic factors like plant population and fertilizer on growth were examined. The optimum plant density was seemed to be 40 cm (row to row) with an yield of 19.6 tonnes ha^-1 of pulpable biomass. A Steep increase in yield was recorded upto 80 kg/ha^-1 after which the yield was not proportionate to the application of nitrogen. Detailed studies on pulp and paper making characteristics were made. Evaluation of pulp, chemical analysis and fibre dimensions were made. The unbleached and bleached pulps were obtained under Sulphate and Soda-AQ processes. Strength properties of the standard paper sheets were determined by using TAPPI standard procedures. The Study indicated that Dhaincha can be used as a good source of non-wood fibrous raw material for pulp and paper industry.