CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDY

This chapter presents the different literature perused to gather insights

for the study. This also includes the studies considered to strengthen the

concepts. Moreover, the chapter provides the conceptual/ theoretical

framework and research paradigm.

Properties of Rice Straw in Paper Making

Statista research department (2023) indicates that paper consumption is

on the rise. Paper holds significant importance, particularly for students, as it

serves various purposes such as printing, writing, designs, packaging, and

more.

Paper is composed of cellulose fibers (Casey, 2017); it is commonly

manufactured using machines, although it can also be crafted by hand. Reddy

and Yang (2006) reports that rice straw contains high quality long natural

cellulose fibers. Nevertheless, given its economical non-wood fiber nature, it

holds promise for paper production and diverse applications like animal feed

and matting.

Rice Straw Management (2021) states that Rice straw is a leftover

material generated as a byproduct of the rice harvesting process. During the

harvest, rice straw is gathered along with the rice grains.

This versatile material offers various benefits to both humans and animals,

serving as animal bedding, garden mulch, and contributing to soil

improvement through composting and carbonization (Nguyen V et al., 2019).

 Additionally, in the study of Kaur D. et al. (2017), it is noted that

lignocellulosic materials are derived from both woody and non-woody plants,

referring to dried plants and grasses. However, rice straw stands as an instance

of lignocellulosic material, representing dried stems and leaves remaining after

rice harvesting. Lignocellulosic materials are a significant source of cellulose,

the fundamental structural component essential for paper production.

The utilization of rice straw as a cellulose source offers substantial

advantages for paper production. Researchers highlight the importance of

harnessing okra's properties to reinforce paper, backed by comprehensive

studies.

Okra Mucilage as binding agent in paper making

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus), often regarded as a vegetable despite

being botanically classified as a fruit, is the seed pod derived from the Okra

plant. Its distinctive elongated, slim, tube-like structure has earned it the

moniker "lady's finger" (Nelson, C., 2023). Traditionally utilized in soups due

to its characteristic viscous texture, this same attribute makes it a viable

candidate as an alternative binding agent in papermaking processes a notion

supported by the research conducted by Ameena et al. (2010). The study

explains that okra's mucilage, or the gel-like substance found within its pods,

possesses adhesive properties comparable to glue, offering potential in

reinforcing rice straw to manufacture paper.