Evaluation of the Chemical Components of Eichhornia crassipes as an Alternative Raw Material for Pulp and Paper

Eichhornia crassipes biomass collected in Lake Cuitzeo, Mexico was analyzed to determine the chemical components (pH, ash, ash microanalysis, extractives, lignin, holocellulose, and alpha cellulose) in the whole plant, as well as segmented analysis in roots, stems, and leaves. The plant contained an ash content of 14.3 to 20.7% and extractives content from 21.8 to 35.6%. The inorganic elements detected were potassium (K), chlorine (Cl), calcium (Ca), sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), silicon (Si), aluminum (Al), phosphorous (P), sulfur (S), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), and titanium (Ti). In addition, low amounts of lignin (12.5 to 25.7%) and holocellulose (26.7 to 37.1%) were obtained. Thus, E. crassipes biomass could complement cellulosic fibers in pulping processes of low yield, such as the fibers used to produce handmade paper.