Cellulose technologies

The subject of impregnation studies is of interest to all chemical pulp processes, irrespective of whether the end product is paper pulp or dissolving pulp. It is imperative for pulp mills seeking to enhance their production or grappling with impregnation-related issues to ensure the optimal impregnation of chips.

Cellulose technologies have been identified as playing a pivotal role in the bioeconomy, the transition towards a fossil-free society, and circular processes. The primary component of the fibre line is the pulp mill, where wood is subjected to a chemical treatment that results in the production of pulp with exposed fibres. For specific applications, the pulp undergoes a subsequent bleaching process.The cellulose technologies at RISE are dedicated to facilitating research and development initiatives aimed at aligning with the industry's evolving requirements and addressing the increasingly stringent regulatory standards and customer expectations set by authorities and clients, respectively. The primary focus of the company is the development of sustainable and cost-effective process solutions throughout the value chain, from various raw materials, including recycled materials, to pulp for a variety of purposes.

RISE is engaged in the development of cellulose technologies with the aim of enhancing existing processes for pulp cooking, oxygen delignification, bleaching, and the creation of new processes for pulp production. The core of research and development is the optimization of processes for maximum raw material utilization, chemical savings, energy, water efficiency, and continuous reduction of environmental footprint.

RISE possesses considerable expertise in cellulose technologies, chemical pulp production (cooking and bleaching), and utilises modern equipment and qualified specialists. The institution facilitates the testing of concepts, laboratory and pilot-scale demonstrations, and accelerates implementation and troubleshooting on an industrial scale. The following information can be provided:

- Suitability of raw materials (wood and other biomass) for various paper/cellulose applications
- Wood and pulp quality issues
- Wood chip treatments
- Cooking and bleaching conditions
- New cooking and bleaching agents, including enzymes
- Brightness and light stability
- Pulp activity
- Pulp and fiber properties
- Environmental impact

In the domain of cellulose technologies, our research endeavours encompass both long-term studies aimed at enhancing existing methodologies, such as cooking, oxygen delignification, and bleaching processes, in addition to the resolution of acute process-related issues encountered along the fibre line.

In the field of biorefining, there is a growing emphasis on the optimization of cooking and bleaching strategies for enhancing pulp quality and process economics. This approach is underpinned by the development of novel sustainable pulp processes that exhibit minimal environmental impact. Additionally, there is a focus on process transition regarding raw materials and/or final products, ensuring a holistic approach to biorefining.

Another key area of research is the fractionation of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin from various raw materials, with the objective of meeting the specific requirements of the biorefinery. The integration of biorefinery processes into chemical pulp mills is also a significant area of research, aiming to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the process.

Finally, the production of specialty cellulose for applications such as textiles and nanocellulose is a crucial aspect of biorefining, as it allows for the development of new and innovative products.

Dissolving pulp

The following areas are encompassed within the field of dissolving pulp:

The manufacturing process and subsequent evaluation of dissolving pulp is undertaken for the specific applications for which it is intended.
The viscose process is one of several processes that can be used to regenerate cellulose.
Cellulose derivatives are another category of material that can be produced through the process of cellulose regeneration.
Modification of fibres is another process that can be used to produce cellulose derivatives. This includes pulp fibres, natural fibres such as cotton, and recycled textile fibres.

Fluff pulp

RISE possesses a distinctive chain of pilots, which are utilised for conducting studies across the entire process, from the extraction of raw wood materials to the generation of finished fluff pulp. This encompasses a series of meticulous procedures, including chipping, cooking, bleaching, and the rigorous evaluation of properties via a state-of-the-art analysis laboratory.

In addition to the purely technical aspects, RISE is able to assist with the evaluation of the specific analyses employed for the purpose of quality assessment of fluff pulp.

Fibre dimensions are analyzed
Energy consumption - hammer mill
Ratio measurement
Dry forming is performed to produce the small pads which are then used to analyze absorption properties.
Complete physical testing can of course also be carried out to evaluate the physical properties of the pulp.

We always work in close dialogue with our customers to ensure value.

Bleaching of cellulose

It is imperative for the paper and pulp industry to comprehend the bleaching process in order to implement the requisite adjustments and optimisations. This will enable the production of high-quality products that exhibit the desired characteristics and durability. This approach not only aligns with customer requirements and expectations but also contributes to reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable production methods.

Bleaching of cellulose