papirfiber

Papirfiber are the basic structural components of paper, consisting of cellulose-rich plant fibers. They originate mainly from wood (softwood and hardwood), but can also come from non-wood plants or from recycled paper. In papermaking, these fibers are separated from the surrounding matrix to form a pulp that can be formed into sheets.

Pulp types used to produce papirfiber include mechanical pulp, chemical pulp, and various blends. Mechanical pulp uses physical grinding or refining to separate fibers, retaining length but reducing strength and brightness. Chemical pulping (such as Kraft or sulfite processes) removes lignin and other components to produce stronger, whiter fibers. Semi-chemical and dissolving pulps are used for specialty papers and textiles, respectively. The choice of pulping method influences fiber length, bonding ability, and paper properties.

Recycled papirfiber come from post-consumer and post-industrial waste. They are often deinked to remove inks and coatings. Recycling shortens fibers and can reduce strength and opacity with each cycle, so recycled fibers are usually blended with virgin pulp to restore properties.

Fiber properties such as length, coarseness, and bonding efficiency determine the strength, stiffness, surface smoothness, and printability of the final paper. Longer fibers generally provide greater tensile strength and tear resistance, while shorter fibers improve surface finish and formation.

Applications and sustainability considerations: Papirfiber are used to manufacture a wide range of products, from newsprint and office papers to packaging boards and specialty papers. Sustainability concerns focus on responsible fiber sourcing, recycling content, energy and chemical use in pulping, and certification schemes that promote forest stewardship and supply-chain integrity.