Potential of Arundo Donax (Giant Reed) for Papermaking, 2000 Pulping / Process & Product Quality Conference Proceedings

S. R. Duke, L. F. de Moura, V. M. Sauceda, D. I. Bransby, G. Krishnagopalan--Studies have been carried out on several aspects of pulping and papermaking of Arundo donax (giant reed). Giant reed has high cellulose content and low lignin content and the fibers are comparable in morphology and characteristics to widely used hardwood fibers for making fine papers. Cooking aspects, pulp qualities, strength properties of paper, and anatomic characteristics of fibers were analyzed. Strength properties of pulp made from the giant reed are comparable to the pulp obtained from the mature sweet gum tree (Liquidambar Styraciflua L). Pulp processing experiments found that the reed, when compared to sweet gum, requires about half the cook time or one-third less chemical charge. Scanning electron microscopy images of paper (handsheets) made at 400 ml Canadian Standard Freeness (CSF) shows good fibrillation and bonding characteristics. Fiber length of the reed pulp was found to be comparable to many southern hardwoods.