Chemical, Semi-chemical and Mechanical Pulps from Casuarina equisetifolia

Laboratory scale experiments on production of chemical, semi-chemical and mechanical pulps are described. Filot plant scale experiments were undertaken to confirm laboratory results of chemical pulps. The results indicate that Casnanna equisetifolia is a suitable raw material for the production of chemical and semi-chemical pulps. This raW material is not suitable for production af mechanical pulps as the energy consumption for grinding was high and the colour of the pulp was dark. Results on the blending of Casuarina pulp with bamboo pulp indicated that blending improves strength properties of bamboo pUlp. Casuarina pulp when beaten in different laboratory beaters, viz., Valley beater, Jokro beater and Lampen Mill indicated that tearing strength was highest when beaten in Valley beater. Pulp beaten in Lampen Mill gave highest bursting strength and tensile strength.