History of Papermaking
Dating back to 105 AD in China, papermaking began with mulberry bark, hemp, and rags. This innovation spread rapidly, replacing cumbersome clay and papyrus tablets.
Pulping Process Explained
Paper starts with pulping, where wood fibers are separated using mechanical or chemical methods. Chemical pulping, like the Kraft process, creates stronger paper by removing lignin.
Bleaching for Whiteness
Post-pulping, fibers are bleached for whiteness and purity. Chlorine was traditionally used, but due to environmental concerns, oxygen-based methods are now prevalent.
Fourdrinier Machine Role
In 1799, the Fourdrinier machine revolutionized papermaking by continuously producing sheets of paper. It drains, presses, and dries the pulp into paper.
Environmental Innovations
Modern papermaking focuses on sustainability, using recycled materials and reducing water consumption by up to 90%, transforming the industry's environmental footprint.Paper from Animal Dung
Some paper is made using fibers found in elephant and panda dung, creating eco-friendly and unique products.
When did papermaking originate in China?
105 AD
1799 AD
90 AD
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