Mechanical pulping
Series editors
Johan Gullichsen, Helsinki University of Technology
Hannu Paulapuro, Helsinki University of Technology
Book editor
Jan Sundholm, Finnish Pulp and Paper Research Institute
Series reviewer
Brian Attwood, St. Anne's Paper and Paperboard Developments Ltd
Book reviewer
Joseph A. Kurdin
Published in cooperation with the Finnish Paper Engineers' Association and TAPPI
Foreword
Johan Gullichsen and Hannu Paulapuro
PAPERMAKING SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Papermaking is a vast, multidisciplinary technology that has expanded tremendously in recent
years. Significant advances have been made in all areas of papermaking, including raw materials,
production technology, process control and end products. The complexity of the processes, the
scale of operation and production speeds leave little room for error or malfunction. Modern
papermaking would not be possible without a proper command of a great variety of technologies,
in particular advanced process control and diagnostic methods. Not only has the technology
progressed and new technology emerged, but our understanding of the fundamentals of unit
processes, raw materials and product properties has also deepened considerably. The variations in
the industry 抯 heterogeneous raw materials, and the sophistication of pulping and papermaking
processes require a profound understanding of the mechanisms involved. Paper and board
products are complex in structure and contain many different components. The requirements
placed on the way these products perform are wide, varied and often conflicting. Those involved
in product development will continue to need a profound understanding of the chemistry and
physics of both raw materials and product structures.
Paper has played a vital role in the cultural development of mankind. It still has a key role in
communication and is needed in many other areas of our society. There is no doubt that it will
continue to have an important place in the future. Paper must, however, maintain its
competitiveness through continuous product development in order to meet the ever-increasing
demands on its performance. It must also be produced economically by environment-friendly
processes with the minimum use of resources. To meet these challenges, everyone working in this
field must seek solutions by applying the basic sciences of engineering and economics in an
integrated, multidisciplinary way.
The Finnish Paper Engineers' Association has previously published textbooks and handbooks on
pulping and papermaking. The last edition appeared in the early 80's. There is now a clear need
for a new series of books. It was felt that the new series should provide more comprehensive