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International Journal of
Chemical Science
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VOL. 6, ISSUE 1 (2022)
Proton generating NAEM-catalyzed organo-solv pulping of seven (7) Nigeria savanah timbers: A potential replacement for the kraft process
Authors
Henry O Chibudike, Chika S Ezeanyanaso, Nwaebuni E Odega, Nelly A Ndukwe, Chinedum E Chibudike, Olubamike A Adeyoju
Abstract
The use of a proton generating NAEM-catalyst salts in aqueous alcohol is a critical determinant in obtaining pulp that can match the strength properties of Kraft pulps. Use of catalyst in cooking liquor of about 70-80% aqueous ethanol concentration is required to effectively solubilize lignin and liberate fibre up to 50 to 65 % yield and has a remarkable impact on pulp production capability in the alcohol organosolv pulping of lingo-cellulosic biomass. The use of aqueous alcohol in the pulping of ligno-cellulosic biomass in the absence of a suitable catalyst would not effectively liberate fibre from the lignin matrix. The use of small doses of neutral alkaline earth metals (NAEM) salts acts as catalyst and buffers the solution, maintaining pH at 4.8. Under this favorable condition, destruction of hemicellulose is less severe and this is responsible for the high yield and strength properties of NAEM-catalyzed organo-solv pulp. In this research study, it was observed that divalent metal ions are very effective, whereas monovalent cations were incapable of fiber liberation and trivalent cations were found to be too aggressive causing extensive damage to the fibers. Under the specified pulping conditions, the organosolv pulping process catalyzed by the divalent metal ion was capable of producing about 60-65% pulp screened yield. Successful chemical pulp production by the NAEM (Neutral Alkali Earth Metal) catalyzed organosolv pulping process opens access to bio-refining and provides value recovery both from the pulp and also from the dissolved wood components from the spent pulping liquor. With less dehydration, pulp of very good flexibility and high viscosity is very promising. While the yields of organosolv pulps were as high as 60%, the highest yields for Kraft pulp average 45%. It is believed that this approach will produce vigorous data and analyses which will serve as a foundation for commercial innovation with the ultimate goal of contributing to the development of new improved process and paper products.
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Pages:22-29
How to cite this article:
Henry O Chibudike, Chika S Ezeanyanaso, Nwaebuni E Odega, Nelly A Ndukwe, Chinedum E Chibudike, Olubamike A Adeyoju "Proton generating NAEM-catalyzed organo-solv pulping of seven (7) Nigeria savanah timbers: A potential replacement for the kraft process". International Journal of Chemical Science, Vol 6, Issue 1, 2022, Pages 22-29
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