Utilization of groundnut shell as kraft paper/
John Jewel T. Cardenas, Jesli Mae A. Dalida, Caine Michael Garcia, Juvalyn A. Metran, and Franchescah Mhae C. Sillano.--
- Manila: Technological University of the Philippines, 2025.
- xi, 91pages: 29cm.
Bachelor's thesis
College of Industrial Technology.--
Includes bibliographic references and index.
This study investigates the potential of groundnut shells as an eco-friendly raw material for kraft paper production. The primary objectives were to convert groundnut shells into pulp through chemical pulping, produce kraft paper, evaluate its physical and mechanical properties, and assess its acceptability based on functionality, workability, economy, aesthetics, and marketability. Groundnut shells were collected, washed, dried, and powdered. Chemical pulping was refined using sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide. Paper sheets were formed using a 180-mesh silkscreen frame and dried at room temperature. The final products were evaluated at the Adamson University Technology Research and Development Center (AUTRDC) for tensile strength, tear resistance, and water absorption. Results indicated a tensile strength of 6.84 N/20 mm, a tear strength of
0.36 N/40 mm, and water absorption of 20.87%, reflecting moderate performance for non- waterproof applications such as arts and crafts. Among the various binding agents tested,
only carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) effectively bonded the pulp fibers, with 5.0 grams yielding optimal results. An acceptability survey conducted among students, faculty, and printing professionals produced a mean rating of 4.52, placing the product in the “highest acceptable” category. The findings affirm the viability of groundnut shells as a sustainable alternative to conventional wood-based kraft paper, contributing to materials innovation and waste valorization in the printing and packaging sectors.