Sanomalehtipaperia

Sanomalehtipaperia, or newspaper paper, is a lightweight, uncoated printing paper used primarily for newspapers and similar periodicals. It features low grammage and a porous structure designed for high-speed web printing and rapid ink absorption. Typical grades span about 40 to 55 g/m2, with some regional variations.

Production relies mainly on mechanical pulps such as groundwood or thermo-mechanical pulp, often with small amounts of chemical pulp for strength. Recovered paper is increasingly used to improve fibre efficiency. The paper is not coated, yielding a matte surface and high ink absorption, which supports fast drying but reduces image sharpness and brightness compared with coated grades.

Key properties include high bulk and adequate stiffness for folding, good runnability on high-speed presses, and low production cost. Brightness is modest and the surface relatively coarse, optimized for text and simple graphics rather than high-resolution photography.

Uses and regional context: Globally, sanomalehtipaperia is defined by its use in traditional daily newspapers, inserts, and other low-cost publications. Nordic countries such as Finland and Sweden have long-running newsprint industries; the category also appears in North America and parts of Europe where low-cost printing is required.

Environmental considerations: Newsprint production is energy- and fibre-intensive. Many mills use recycled fibre, deinking, and certifications such as FSC or PEFC to promote sustainable forestry and responsible production. Ongoing shifts in demand due to digital media have influenced grammage choices and market dynamics.