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.--

Bachelor's thesis

College of Industrial Technology.-- Bachelor of technology major in print media technology: Technological University of the Philippines: 2025.

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.