Process intensification for resource-efficient production of biofiber-based packaging materials

To replace fossil-based to sustainable, biofiber-based packaging, improving resource efficiency in the use of forest raw materials is essential. Currently, over 70 percent of biofiber production relies on chemical pulping, with a yield of about 50 percent from wood. In contrast, high-yield pulps such as CTMP achieve yields above 75 percent, yet represent less than 30 percent of production. Increasing the share of CTMP in biofiber-based packaging like cardboard can significantly enhance resource utilization from forest to finished product. However, high-yield pulps typically require more electrical energy than chemical pulps.

This project aims to validate and advance previous R&D findings through pilot and full-scale CTMP trials, targeting substantial reductions in energy consumption while improving pulp properties. The objective is to replace a larger portion of chemical pulp with enhanced CTMP, thereby improving wood utilization efficiency and reducing energy demand in the production of equivalent packaging materials.