Evaluation of Percentage Solubles, Fibre Dimensions and Morphological Indices of Different Parts of Raphia hookies as Raw Materials for Pulp and Paper Production

Abstract

Fibre characteristics and solubility contents of the raw materials are critical indicators for predicting their suitability for pulp and paper production. This research work evaluates the percentage solubles and fibre characteristics of different parts of Raphia hookies (Tietie, Piassava, Petiole and Frond). The samples were ground into powder and solubility in cold and hot water, 1% NaOH and ethanol/benzene were determined using TAPPI standard methods. Ethanoic acid/ hydrogen peroxide macerated samples fibres were used for the determination of fibre characteristics. Results revealed that the soluble contents were within the range of other non woods pulping raw materials, average fibre length for Tietie, Piassava, Petiole and Frond were 1.21, 1.85, 1.59 and 2.46 mm respectively. Frond with long fibre length will give stronger, more durable paper. Fibre diameters varied slightly across samples (14.65 –15.50 µm), while lumen width (7.33 –7.55 µm) and cell wall thickness (3.660 – 3.975 µm) values remained consistent, indicating similar structural properties. These results revealed that the samples have short-long fibres. The results of the morphological indices indicate that the Runkel ratio ranged from 0.998 to 1.053, with Frond exhibiting the most favorable value (0.998), Slenderness ratios were highest in Petiole (164.44) and Piassava (123.66), suggesting excellent fibre flexibility and high tensile potential. Flexibility coefficients for all samples were about 50 %, indicating good potential for fibre collapse and inter-fibre bonding. Rigidity coefficients ranged between 20.00 % and 25.65 %, all below the critical 30 % threshold. These results showed that the tested samples exhibited varying fibre dimensions and morphological characteristics and are suitable for the production of various grades of papers. The solubility characteristics of different parts of Raphia hookeri will offer essential insights into their potential use as raw materials for pulp and paper production.