PaCoNa (Paper of Corn Husks and Banana Stem), Comparison of Banana Stems and Corn Husks as Alternative Materials to Reduce the Use of Tree Trunks as the Main Material for Making Paper

Paper is one of the most essential materials supporting human activities in education, industry, and daily life. Increasing global demand for paper has long relied on trees as the primary raw material, leading to deforestation, ecosystem imbalance, and environmental pollution from paper mill waste. This study investigates the potential of agricultural by-products, specifically banana stems and corn husks, as sustainable alternatives to wood pulp for paper production. By utilizing abundant natural waste, this research aims to reduce reliance on trees while addressing issues
such as the greenhouse effect and global warming caused by deforestation. The study was conducted at SMA Ar-Rohmah IIBS Malang from November 2024 to May 2025 using a quantitative experimental method. Agricultural residues of banana stems and corn husks were processed through boiling with sodium hydroxide (NaOH), blending into pulp, molding, and sun-drying. Paper quality was evaluated through physical tests (thickness, density), mechanical tests (tensile and folding strength), and performance tests (writing, water absorption, and sensory evaluation). Results showed that banana stem-based paper had a thickness similar to commercial HVS paper (0.04 mm), while corn husk-based paper was thinner (0.02 mm). In terms of density, corn husk paper achieved the highest value (17.86 g/mm³), exceeding banana stem paper (4.5 g/mm³) and HVS paper (13.4 g/mm³). Mechanical testing revealed that corn husk paper exhibited greater tensile strength (5 N) than banana stem paper (2.2 N). Both experimental papers outperformed HVS in folding resistance, sustaining six folds without tearing, compared to five folds for HVS. Furthermore, both materials proved usable for writing, as pencil and pen ink remained visible without bleeding, enabling double-sided use. In conclusion, corn husks demonstrate strong potential as an alternative raw material for paper production, offering an eco-friendly solution that supports waste reduction, deforestation prevention, and environmental sustainability.