Screening of mulberry clones for pulp and paper production

The growing demand for sustainable raw materials in the pulp and paper industry has spurred interest in alternative non-wood fiber sources like mulberry (Morus spp.). Traditionally cultivated for sericulture, mulberry is now being explored for its potential in pulp and paper production due to its rapid growth, high biomass yield, and favorable fiber properties. This study aims to evaluate different mulberry clones for their pulp yield, fiber characteristics, and suitability for commercial paper production. Proximate analysis revealed significant variation among clones in moisture content, ash content, lignin levels, extractives, and holocellulose, all critical for assessing their pulp and paper potential. Pulp properties, including screened pulp yield and kappa number, were evaluated, with some clones showing superior results, making them promising candidates for industrial use. The strength properties of the paper produced from these clones were also assessed, with tensile, tear, and burst indices indicating the overall quality of the paper. These findings suggest that mulberry, particularly certain clones, offers significant potential as a sustainable raw material for the pulp and paper industry, supporting environmental goals of reducing deforestation.