Characteristics of Pulp and Paper Produced from Corn Stalk

Com stalk was evaluated to verify the potential as a raw material for papermaking. The lower lignin content and higher hemicelluloses content of cornstalk than any woods were considered to be beneficial for pulping and strength properties of paper. The average fiber length of com stalk was similar to those of hardwood, but longer fiber fraction is little bit included. It was found that the refining of pulp can be eliminated because of higher hemicelluloses content and narrower fiber characteristic. Disadvantages of cornstalk pulp were lower bulk and opacity, but it can be overcome by the proper use of wood pulp and filler.