Enzymatic and mechanical treatment on chemical pulp

Effect of fiber treatment with cellulase (Liftase A40), and with two refining methods (Valley beating and impact refining) on wood fiber and handsheet properties were investigated at three refining levels (300, 400, and 500ml) for two furnishes (NBKP and LBKP). Part of the treated furnishes were classified by 150 mesh screen into fine-free fiber, and fines. Fiber length analysis, WRV, zero-span strength, and other handsheet mechanical properties were compared. The study showed that Liftase A40 lowered the zero-span and the folding endurance of both furnishes (NBKP much more and LBKP much less). Pretreatment with Liftase A 40 followed by refining significantly lowered the fiber length and refining energy to reach to the target freeness. Impact refining, which is done by hitting the fibers vertically with rod at 20% solid content, kept the fiber length increased WRV, and improved handsheet mechanical properties much more than valley beating. Properties of fines from different sources were compared in detail in the study.