Papiiri

Papiiri is a Finnish word that translates to "paper" in English. It refers to the material manufactured in thin sheets from the pulp of wood, rags, or other fibrous materials, used for writing, printing, drawing, or for packaging and other purposes. The production of paper is a significant industrial process worldwide.

Historically, paper was first invented in China, with early forms being made from materials like mulberry bark and hemp. Over centuries, the technology spread and evolved, with significant advancements occurring in Europe. The invention of the paper machine in the 19th century revolutionized paper production, allowing for mass manufacturing.

Modern paper is typically made from wood pulp. The process involves breaking down wood into fibers, cleaning and bleaching them, and then forming a thin mat of these fibers on a screen, which is then pressed and dried. Different types of paper are produced for various uses, including printing paper, writing paper, newsprint, tissue paper, cardboard, and specialty papers. The properties of paper, such as its thickness, strength, absorbency, and surface texture, are determined by the raw materials used and the manufacturing process. Paper remains a ubiquitous material in modern life, despite the rise of digital technologies.