papper

Papper is a thin material made primarily from cellulose fibers derived from wood pulp, though it can also include cotton, hemp, recycled fibers, or other natural sources. It is produced by suspending fibers in water, forming a continuous sheet, and then removing water through pressing and drying. The sheet may be refined, calendered for smoothness, and coated for various finishes.

Papper serves many functions, including writing, printing, packaging, and hygiene products. Its properties vary by fiber source and processing: grammage (weight per area), thickness (caliper), brightness and opacity, strength, and surface texture. Common categories include writing and printing papers, newsprint, packaging papers (kraft and liner), and specialty papers such as filter, tracing, and tissue papers.

Manufacturing involves pulping, refining, forming a sheet on a moving screen, pressing to remove water, drying, and sometimes calendering or coating. Recycled fibers can be incorporated at various stages, reducing the demand for virgin pulp. The choice of pulp and processing determines characteristics such as durability, print quality, and moisture resistance.

Environmental considerations include energy use, chemical management, water stewardship, and the lifecycle of paper products. Recycling programs are widespread in many regions, and certifications such as FSC or PEFC indicate sustainable forestry practices. The industry also works to reduce harmful bleaching agents and to improve the recyclability of coated papers.

Historically, papper originated in China around the 2nd century BCE and was refined by Cai Lun in the 2nd century CE. It spread through the Islamic world and into Europe, where mechanization in the 19th century enabled large-scale production, transforming communication, education, and commerce.