Miscanthus hybrids as a promising raw material

This research investigates the potential of Miscanthus hybrids as a raw material for pulp production and bridges the gap between agricultural biomass production and industrial paper manufacturing.

First, a detailed characterisation of the chemical and morphological properties of various Miscanthus hybrids, compared with Miscanthus × giganteus, is carried out. This enables an assessment of their suitability for pulp production, as well as an analysis of their potential advantages and disadvantages.

In order to determine the most effective digestion process, various methods are being investigated, including soda digestion, magnesium hydroxide digestion and Acetosov digestion. Each method is applied to both Miscanthus × giganteus and a selected hybrid variety in order to directly compare pulp yield, efficiency and fibre quality.

The best method is then used to produce pulp from several Miscanthus hybrids. The fibre quality and processability are analysed in order to identify the most suitable hybrid variety for paper production.

Particular focus is placed on the suitability of Miscanthus pulp for the production of tissue paper. To this end, the pulp samples are processed in grinding trials at 0, 500, 1000 and 2000 revolutions per minute in a PFI mill. The mechanical properties and softness are then assessed. The results are compared with standard tissue compositions (80% eucalyptus / 20% NBSK and 100% eucalyptus pulp) in order to assess the potential of miscanthus as an alternative.

Through the systematic analysis of various hybrids, the optimisation of pulping methods and the investigation of the resulting papers, this study aims to provide insights into the use of Miscanthus as a sustainable fibre source for the pulp and paper industry.