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In the papermaking process, it can be difficult to maintain specified mechanical-strength levels while minimizing fiber costs and meeting specified targets. If significantly increased, bonding could be achieved without as much refining of the fibers, just adding a biopolymer, then it might be possible to achieve important paper-property targets at lower basis weights. The incorporation of a biopolymer in the papermaking process changes positively the relations between important pulp properties, rendering its application differentiated and advantageous, as these gains will be immediately passed on to the paper obtained. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the development potential of the physical-mechanical properties of Sack Kraft paper through the application of biopolymers in two types of cellulose pulp from Pinus spp. (UKP - Unbleached Kraft Pulp and DKP - Delignified Kraft Pulp), allowing for a possible basis-weight reduction in these papers. Two different biopolymers were developed according to the specific type of cellulose pulp and production process conditions of the present study, B1 and B2. The applications and analyses contemplated two scenarios: 1) cellulose pulp without refining, with 120 minutes of retention time for both pulps; and 2) industrially-refined cellulose pulp, with 23 minutes and 20 minutes retention time for UKP and DKP, respectively. For scenario 1, the cellulose pulp was refined in laboratory after application of the biopolymers, considering the following refining degrees: initial, 15, 20 and 30°SR. For both scenarios, laboratory handsheets were formed to carry out physical and mechanical tests in order to assess properties of the pulp itself, which were: tensile strength, stretch, TEA (Tensile Energy Absorption), tearing resistance and burst strength. Overall, the industrially -refined cellulose pulp with subsequent application of Biopolymer B2 showed the best performance for both types of cellulose pulp, with a substantial increase in tensile index (9% - 16.5%), stretch (9% - 16%), TEA (21% - 30%) and burst index (13% - 14%) for UKP and DKP cellulose pulp, respectively. The results show that applying the biopolymer after refining allows for the gains obtained in cellulose pulp to be passed on to the end product, resulting in expressive gains in Sack Kraft paper quality and production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article informs about the ongoing modernization efforts at the BO Paper's Arapoti-PR plant, which aims to expand its production capacity and enhance flexibility. Topic includes investments in the plant's infrastructure and workforce training. The Arapoti unit specializes in graphic papers, fibers, and specialties and plays a significant role in the social and economic development of the region, providing both direct and indirect employment opportunities.

The article focuses on the role of the forest-based industry in the circular economy, with the Industrial Research and Development Manager of Klabin discussing the contribution of the sector to solutions aligned with the bioeconomy and circular economy and how ABTCP provides technical support to companies in Brazil. It further discusses the pulp and paper sector's performance in the circular economy and its contribution to the development of bioeconomy.

This paper focuses mainly on the economical possibilities of utilizing existing roll grinding machines for actual technical demands. Tailormade and flexible readiness for future challenges is the key to a sustainable roll shop operation. Roll grinding in the roll service segment is an essential quality factor. Paper-industry grinding machines are typically hybrids of many different applications (superfinishing, belt grinding, groove milling, etc.). Considering the huge variation of rolls, optimized flexibility is required from roll grinding machines. State-of-the-art design principle, how to overcome typical weak points, modern solutions for auxiliary application along with modern CNC controls, roll inspection systems and uplift to Industry 4.0 data utilization is the primary concern of this paper. Additionally, modern equipment for independent and condition-based maintenance are introduced, such as automatic grinding process including measuring and correction, vibration monitoring, and condition monitoring with corresponding interactive maintenance guidance. This paper provides a short overview on the correct application of modern abrasives with reference to the utilization of high-performance roll covers, such as tungsten carbide and composite. This then leads to the target of tailormade modernizations of existing roll grinders and focuses on the flexible adaption of mature machines with the greatest possible utilization of the current machine setup. In order to keep pace with rapidly changing requirements and cost-efficiency demands, smart and flexible solutions in due consideration of intelligent revaluation of outdated equipment are targeted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An editorial is presented on the latest edition of O Papel magazine, featuring stories about significant milestones in the paper sector, highlighting Paraibuna Embalagens' rise in the corrugated paperboard market and Melhoramentos' strategic transformation. Topics include success perspectives, financial results of the forest base sector, and insights from columnists on various industry-related subjects.

The article focuses on the expected growth in Brazilian corrugated box shipments in 2024, projected to increase by around 200,000 tons to reach a record 4.2 million tons by the year's end. Topics include improved consumption conditions, positive industrial performance, and strong food exports, all contributing to a favorable outlook for the corrugated board industry in Brazil.

The article reports that the intrinsic concern with natural resources makes companies look for alternatives across the production process to reduce water consumption and reuse filtrates between stages. Topics include Partial closure of the filtrate circuits reduces the consumption of water and chemicals, contributing to the optimization of manufacturing costs; and final industrialization process where wood is transformed into paper.

The article informs about that the Programa de Preparação de Gestores de Celulose e Papel (PPGCP) has concluded its two-month training program, preparing 17 participants for careers in the paper and cellulose industry. This initiative by the Associação Brasileira Técnica de Celulose e Papel (ABTCP) aims to bridge the skills gap in the industry and has been successful in nurturing young talent, as highlighted by the experiences of past participants who have secured positions within the sector.

The article informs about the Brazilian Technical Association of Pulp and Paper (ABTCP) is currently running six classes of its postgraduate program in Pulp and Paper Technology, Topic include with over 200 students in total. This program, initiated in 1988, has continuously evolved to meet the industry's changing needs and has formed thousands of professionals over its 35-year history. It maintains partnerships with renowned educational institutions, currently collaborating with UFV and UFRRJ.

The article informs about the Klabin's operation of the Paper Machine 28 (MP28), located in Ortigueira, Brazil, Topic include which is equipped with advanced technology for paperboard production. It has a yearly production of 460,000 tons and the flexibility to manufacture paperboard, white top liner, and kraftliner. The decision to construct MP28, part of Project Puma II, was driven by global market opportunities, Klabin's technological expertise, and the efficient forest base in the region.

The article informs about a correction regarding a previous comment on Klabin's paper recycling operations. Topic include It then discusses factors affecting Brazil's scrap paper market, including the impact of imports, especially during the pandemic, and how associations worked to impose an 18% tax on paper and plastic scrap imports to mitigate the threat to the domestic market.

The article discusses that according to the Monthly Statistical Bulletin of the Brazilian Association of Paper Packaging (EMPAPEL), the Brazilian Corrugated Board Index (IBPO) rose 12.8% in June compared to the same month last year, to 146.8 points (2005=100).

The article informs about that Voith Paper, a strategic long-term partner of Klabin, Topic include has contributed to the development of Project Puma II by supplying clothing and QualiFlex felts for the start-up of MP 27 and MP 28 paper machines in Ortigueira, Paraná. The installation of Voith's Infinity +Peak felt technology improved the performance of MP 27, and similar benefits are expected for MP 28, enhancing production capacity and machine efficiency.

The article informs about that after reaching their minimum levels in June, the prices in US dollars per ton of short-fiber pulp increased slightly in China in July and August. Topic include However, prices for BHKP (or BEK) in the US and Europe continue to decline despite being higher than in the Chinese market. The article also discusses international pulp and paper prices, with a focus on the European and US markets.