Sound absorption and print density properties of recycled sheets made from waste paper and agricultural plant fibres

Abstract

A number of thin biocomposites through wet lying methods were prepared from old corrugated boards with blends of luffa fibres (LF) and yarn waste (YW) at 15 and 30%. Mechanical, optical, printability and sound absorption properties of manufactured materials were determined. Addition of both LF and YW improved the brightness of control sheets, but unfortunately significantly reduced the burst and tensile indexes. Sound absorption values were found to be improved by both LF and YW parallel to the increase in the air permeability. Thermal stabilities of prepared sheets were also slightly improved by LF and YW as revealed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Furthermore, addition of LF and WY were noted to increase both the changes in print density and tone values of resultant materials. It is concluded that LF and YW could be better utilized with recycled cellulose fibres in producing some insulation and packaging materials.