Unique research will improve efficiency in paper production and save energy

The challenge: to remove more water faster from paper that is designed to be dense and impermeable. This could describe the essence of Björn Öman’s doctoral thesis, carried out at the request of Nordic Paper in Säffle.
Björn Öman
Björn Öman.

The purpose was quite simply to find one or more ways to improve dewatering efficiency in the production of Nordic Paper’s Natural Greaseproof paper. Since the paper is converted into products such as baking paper and various types of baking cups, it needs to be able to provide a barrier against both grease and moisture at high temperatures. This has to be achieved without any fluorochemicals – also called PFAS chemicals – being added in the production process.

Focus on fibres and refining

The secret behind the specific attributes of this paper lies mainly in the actual refining process. Here the fibres need plenty of water to become interconnected and form a smooth and durable surface. But as a lot of water is added, a lot of water also needs to be removed, which of course requires energy. This was the focus of Björn’s research – to explore how to further improve the efficiency of this process.

“My focus is on fibres and refining. Right now I’m looking on how to optimise the vacuum suction boxes to achieve a vacuum effect that is strong enough to remove the right amount of water, but not too strong so that more energy than necessary is required,” says Björn.

Triple vacuum suction boxes – a recipe for success

Björn has a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering and wanted to continue his studies. When Nordic Paper reached out to him he was quick to accept their request.

“I’m very happy and have been treated really well. Also, I was already familiar with this topic because my Master’s thesis focused on these areas,” he says.

Although he only started working on his doctoral thesis in March of this year, his first scientific paper has already been published. It covers how a so-called triple vacuum suction box achieved precisely the desired result, i.e. to be able dry the paper with less energy consumption than before.

“Björn’s research clearly shows the significant potential that exists. This is of course a great boost for our future prospects,” says Henrik Kjellgren, Product Manager at Nordic Paper.

The focus going forward will be on continuing to explore ways in which triple vacuum suction boxes can be used and on how to adjust the fibre mix.

“One of the things I’ll be working on now is adding fibres with different dimensions into the stock and trying to find the optimal amount for even better dewatering and ultimately even better paper,” concludes Björn.