Sustainable innovation in Pulp and Paper industry: Invasive alien species Phytolacca americana waste integration to commercial pulp. Physic-mechanical properties analysis

Abstract

Abstract Paper industry contributes significantly to the transformation of native forests into monocultures of exotic species, such as Eucalyptus globulus. This monoculture expansion not only reduces biodiversity in cultivated areas but also in adjacent regions. Ecological concerns, the demand for cellulose-based products continues to rise, driving an increase in pulp and paper production over the years. Invasive species pose a significant threat to ecosystems, driven by anthropogenic behaviors, urbanization, cultivation, and globalization. The integration of these species leads to the displacement of native flora, soil impoverishment, and ecosystem degradation. Addressing both issues highlights the need not only to reuse waste derived from clearing invasive species but also to reintroduce it into the production system by utilizing their fibers reducing the use of alien wood fibers in paper production. The study encompasses the entire process of obtaining and processing Phytolacca americana pulp, including kraft lignin extraction, refining processes, and analysis of pulp and laboratory paper properties. Standardized tests based on ISO standards were conducted to assess various physical and mechanical properties of the paper samples such as drainability, thickness, grammage, specific volume and density, weight, and air permeance and resistance. Advanced imaging techniques as SEM visualization were employed to examine the internal structure and chemical composition of the paper samples, providing valuable insights into fiber integration and paper quality. Results confirm the suitability of Phytolacca americana utilization for industry, with certain properties showing improvement or maintenance, indicating its feasibility for market incorporation, promoting biodiversity care and monoculture reduction.