Etudiant : ODOMA MUHAMMAD RABIU

Filière : Master Chimie Analytique et Environnement (CAE)

Encadrant : Pr. RAIS ZAKIA

Annèe : 2025

Résumé : This study explores the potential of Alfa fibre as a sustainable raw material to produce filter paper intended for environmental applications. The process involved an initial cleaning and disintegration of the plant stems, followed by an alkaline treatment using sodium hydroxide to remove non-cellulosic components such as lignin and hemicellulose. A subsequent bleaching step using sodium chlorite and acetic acid was carried out to improve fibre purity and whiteness. The treated fibres were then dispersed uniformly in water and formed into paper sheets through manual sheet casting methods designed to promote even fibre distribution. To enhance the structural and mechanical performance of the paper, specific additives were introduced. These contributed to improved inter-fibre bonding, reduced surface defects, and increased wet strength. Several practical challenges were encountered during processing, including foam formation, poor sheet detachment, and the presence of pores that compromised sheet uniformity. These were addressed through adjustments in additive concentrations, modifications to the drying surface, and optimization of the pressing technique. Overall, the developed paper exhibited improved homogeneity, mechanical integrity, and filtration potential, confirming Alfa fibre's promise as an environmentally friendly and biodegradable alternative for filter media development. This work contributes to ongoing efforts in creating low-impact materials for sustainable environmental technologies.