Puukuituja

Puukuituja are a type of fiber derived from wood. These fibers are a fundamental component of wood and are essential for its structural integrity and properties. Wood is primarily composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, with cellulose being the most abundant and forming the structural backbone of the fibers. The length and properties of puukuituja vary depending on the tree species and its age. Softwood fibers, originating from coniferous trees, are generally longer than hardwood fibers, which come from deciduous trees. This difference in fiber length influences the strength and characteristics of paper products made from them.

The primary use of puukuituja is in the pulp and paper industry. Wood is processed through mechanical or chemical pulping methods to separate the fibers. Mechanical pulping grinds the wood, retaining most of the lignin, resulting in weaker but higher-yield pulp suitable for newsprint and cardboard. Chemical pulping uses chemicals to dissolve lignin, producing stronger and brighter pulp ideal for printing paper and packaging. Beyond papermaking, puukuituja also find applications in wood-based composites like particleboard and MDF, as well as in insulation materials and as a component in textiles through regenerated cellulose processes. The sustainable management of forests is crucial for ensuring a continuous supply of puukuituja.