A New Fiber Processing Method

A fiber processing method, which might be an alternative for conventional refining process, was introduced. The method consists of repetitive, gentle, mechanical impacts on fiber, and ensued fiber uncurling process. This method was very effective for OCC and BCTMP for increasing WRVs (water retention value) while keeping fiber lengths from shortening. For OCC and BCTMP, gentle mechanical impacts on fibers using Hobart mixer increased breaking lengths and tear strengths simultaneously at fast drainage level, and straightening fibers using kady mill increased those strength properties further. For SwBKP and HwBKP, only mechanical impacts using the mixer were effective on increasing tensile and tear strength at fast drainage, but not kady mill treatment. The strength increases of BCTMP by this alternative fiber processing method were exceptionally high. An extensive engineering development should be followed to actualize this fiber processing mechanism in an energy-effect way.