LAUSR

Abstract Rapeseed (Brassica napus) stalks are agricultural wastes generated in important quantities as a result of rapeseed cultivation valued for edible vegetable oil or biodiesel production. This study examines the potential of using rapeseed stalks as raw material in pulp production. The obtained results pointed out to the suitability of these agricultural wastes for pulping to papermaking pulp. Chemical alkaline pulping methods such as kraft and sulphur-free soda-anthraquinone and their optimization were taken into consideration for the laboratory trials. Response surface modeling was employed for the study of process parameters impact on obtained pulps. As a result, optimal process conditions may be selected depending on the desired pulp characteristics.