Märgmass

Märgmass is a term used in industrial processes, particularly in the paper and pulp industry, to describe a material consisting of fibers suspended in a liquid, typically water. It represents a stage in the manufacturing process where raw materials have been processed into a fibrous form but have not yet been dried to a significant extent. The consistency of märgmass can vary greatly, from a very dilute slurry to a more concentrated paste, depending on the specific application and stage of production.

In papermaking, märgmass is the suspension of cellulose fibers, water, and various additives that is fed onto the paper machine. This mixture is carefully controlled for its fiber content, freeness (how easily water drains from it), and the presence of chemicals that enhance paper properties like strength, color, and resistance to water. The märgmass flows onto a moving screen where water begins to drain away, allowing the fibers to interlock and form a continuous sheet.

Beyond papermaking, the concept of märgmass can be found in other industries where fibrous materials are processed in a wet state. For example, in the production of certain building materials or composite products, fibers might be suspended in water to facilitate mixing, molding, or forming. The term emphasizes the wet, unconsolidated nature of the material before significant drying or consolidation occurs. Managing the water content and fiber distribution within märgmass is crucial for achieving desired product quality and efficient manufacturing.