The use of microfibrillated cellulose in fine paper manufacturing - Results from a pilot scale papermaking trial

In this work the strength enhancing capabilities of microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) in highly filled papers was studied. Both the MFC production and the paper making were done in pilot scale under realistic industrial conditions. The results clearly show that MFC (2.5-5.0 wt-%) could improve the mechanical properties of highly filled papers (20-35 wt-% filler contents). All studied dry mechanical properties were improved and the improvements were most pronounced for Z-strength and fracture toughness. By combining the MFC with a C-starch dosage further improvements in mechanical properties could be achieved. The improvements in mechanical properties enabled increased filler content with retained properties. The filler increase could be achieved at the same time as the sheet formation and the dry content after pressing were improved.