Alkaline xylan extraction of bleached kraft pulp - effect of extraction time on pulp chemical composition and physical properties

Abstract

In this pilot scale study, we examined the effects of alkaline extraction time on xylan removal, pulp and paper properties, and the consequences that need to be addressed when scaling up and intensifying the process. Alkaline extraction of bleached birch kraft pulp yields two fractions: pure polymeric xylan and pulp with reduced xylan content. Our results indicate that a similar amount of xylan can be extracted in 5 min as the amount obtained in 60 min. We found, however, that the shorter extraction time is beneficial to maintain the fiber and paper properties at an acceptable level. This pilot trial demonstrated that the washing procedure of the alkali-treated fibers must be selected with care to avoid causing mechanical damage to fibers and to avoid the loss of fines.