Eco-Friendly Solutions to Enhance the Mechanical Properties of Handmade Recycling Papers

This study examines the behaviour of mechanical properties of handmade recycled paper which is improved by adding waste yarn and rubber latex. The main objectives of this research are to enhance the tensile strength, shear strength, and water resistance by identifying the most effective proportions for blending wastepaper, waste yarn, and latex. The study utilizes conventional recycling techniques enhanced with these materials, leading to substantial enhancements. The experimental results demonstrate that adding waste yarn into the wastepaper enhances the tensile strength from 1.21 MPa to 6.08 MPa when the yarn content is increased. Shear strength reaches a maximum of 1.65 MPa when the waste yarn content is 40%. Incorporating rubber latex to the wastepaper boosts water resistance and further enhances the strength of the paper. The tensile strength of recycled paper increased from 1.21 MPa to 6.08 MPa with waste yarn addition, while shear strength reached a maximum of 1.65 MPa at 40% yarn content. Incorporation of natural rubber latex further enhanced tensile strength up to 17.42 MPa and reduced water absorptivity by approximately 65%. These improvements indicate that the developed recycled paper is suitable for packaging and utility applications requiring enhanced strength and moisture resistance. The research findings reveal that finest combinations of waste yarn and rubber latex can greatly improve the mechanical properties of handmade recycled paper. Based on these observations, the property enhanced recycled papers are highly suitable for any industrial and domestic applications and have a positive impact on the conservation of the environment. It also has the impact of reusing waste materials to avoid wastage in the manufacture of new papers which can put pressure on natural resources and thereby help to preserve natural resources and decrease landfill waste. Due to the massive consumption of paper in the world, these results offer an eco-friendly solution to ensure environmental protection.