TECHNO-ECONOMIC ANALYSIS FOR VIRGIN PAPER PRODUCTION FROM BAGASSE

Abstract

The pulp and paper manufacturing industry relies heavily on importing waste paper as its raw material from neighbouring countries such as South Africa. At the same time, the available local resource is wood and cutting this results in environmental problems. As a measure to foster value addition and beneficiation as well as reduce deforestation, there is need to use alternative raw materials such as bagasse which is readily available at sugar plantations. This study involved the processing of 40 tons per day of virgin paper from bagasse as an alternative option using the Kraft process with a conversion yield of 35%. Optimum operating pressure and temperature were found to be 9.6 atmospheres and 200oC respectively and a detailed process design was done considering the process safety issues. After an environmental impact assessment the bagasse to virgin paper plant was recommended for siting in Chiredzi. An economic analysis carried out indicated a return on investment of 45% and a payback period of 2.2 years. The net present value was found to be $757 792 with the virgin paper selling price set at $108/ton. Henceforth the project is both technically and economically feasible.