woodpulp

Wood pulp is a cellulose-rich material derived from wood that serves as the principal input for paper, cardboard, and many cellulose-based products. It is produced by mechanical or chemical processes that separate cellulose fibers from lignin and other wood components.

Mechanical pulps, including groundwood and refiner mechanical pulps, retain most of the lignin and yield high fiber mass. They produce pulp that is relatively quick to produce, with high yield, but is darker and less strong than chemical pulps. Chemical pulps, such as kraft (sulfate) and sulfite pulps, remove more lignin and produce brighter, stronger fibers suitable for a wide range of papers.

Bleaching is commonly used to increase brightness. Modern mills use chlorine-free sequences, such as elemental chlorine-free (ECF) or totally chlorine-free (TCF) processes, to reduce environmental impact.

Wood pulp properties depend on the wood species and processing. Softwoods (e.g., pine, spruce) yield long fibers with high tensile strength, while hardwoods (e.g., eucalyptus, birch) contribute shorter fibers with better bonding. Many products mix pulps from different sources.

Major uses of wood pulp include printing and writing papers, packaging papers, and tissues. A portion of dissolving pulp is used to produce viscose, cellophane, and other cellulose derivatives.

Environmental considerations include energy and chemical use, wastewater treatment, and forest management. Industry groups promote certifications (e.g., FSC, PEFC) to ensure sustainable forestry and responsible pulping practices.

Globally, wood pulp production is concentrated in countries with large forest resources and established pulp industries, including Canada, the United States, Sweden, Finland, and Brazil.