A Physical and Tearing Behavior of Papers Produced Using Calico Fabric and Recycle Box Materials

Abstract

The increasing global demand for paper and the rising volume of fabric waste have become critical environmental concerns due to unsustainable production and disposal practices. Conventional paper production, heavily reliant on wood pulp, contributes to deforestation and resource depletion, while fabric waste exacerbates landfill overflows. This study investigates the potential of producing paper from recycled calico fabric waste blended with box paper pulp in specific ratios ranging from 20% to 80% to evaluate the mechanical and physical properties of the resulting paper. Fabric waste and box paper were processed into pulp, combined in precise ratios, and shaped into sheets using a mold-based paper-making technique. The produced paper was tested for tearing resistance, thickness, weight, and absorbency properties. Results demonstrated that higher calico fabric content enhanced absorbency and flexibility but reduced tearing resistance. The optimal composition, determined by balancing tearing resistance, flexibility, and absorbency, was found at a 50% calico fabric and 50% box paper ratio, contributing to greater rigidity and mechanical strength. This composition was selected as optimal due to its balance of high mechanical strength, adequate absorbency, and flexibility, making it suitable for practical applications. The final composition balanced these properties, providing an eco-friendly alternative for applications such as sustainable packaging and artistic materials. This study highlights an environmentally friendly approach to paper production, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional methods and integrating circular economy principles by repurposing calico fabric and box paper waste.