Process Variables of Pulp Alkali Pretreatment, 2008 PAPERCON Conference

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The effect of pretreatment of fibers with sodium hydroxide, commonly referred as the mercerization process, is shown. The treatment of fibers with sodium hydroxide can be carried out at different alkali concentration, reaction time, and at different consistency. The sodium hydroxide concentration and pulp consistency have the strongest impact on every single dependable variable. The effect of treated pulp’s presence within the mixture of fibers on the results of two methods was studied. For the vertical wicking test a positive effect of alkali concentration on the Wicking height, and specific absorbent capacity was found. For the in-plane camera monitored absorption test, the presence of treated pulp within the mixture, and the basis weight as well, negatively affect the slope of the liquid in-plane distribution rate, and the final area of the dot.