Evaluation of the Quality Properties of Paper Derived from Bacterial Cellulose from Banana Peels and Pineapple Peels: A Multivariate Statistical Analysis

The Ecuadorian paper industry faces the constant challenge of seeking alternative raw materials to replace wood pulp in paper production and its derivatives to reduce production costs. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the quality properties of paper derived from bacterial cellulose from two of Ecuador's most abundant agricultural residues: banana peels and pineapple peels. The influence of the productivity parameters of the bacterial cellulose produced on the quality properties of the derived paper is established using multivariate statistical methodologies. Fifteen treatments with different carbon sources in the microorganism's culture medium were applied: medium with glucose (T1), media with banana peel extracts at various concentrations (T2-T8), and media with pineapple peel extracts at various concentrations (T9-T15). After obtaining the cellulose, additives and coating solutions were added to produce paper. The results showed that high concentrations of banana peel extracts (T5-T8) were significantly related to the weight and yield of bacterial cellulose, as well as the grammage and water content of the paper. This demonstrates that the quality of bacterial cellulose and the nutritional composition of banana peel extracts are optimal for efficient and sustainable paper production.