Wood and how it relates to paper products

Wood species, age, and density control the length, diameter, and wall thickness of the fibers. These parameters influence the performance of the paper product and ultimately influence customer satisfaction with the product. This article reviews some of the contributions wood makes to performance and performance problems in high yield pulps, coated printing papers, uncoated free sheet, bleached paperboard, and corrugated board. The strengths and weaknesses of fiber from four softwood genera (spruces, western hemlock, Douglas-fir, and the southern pines) and four hardwood genera (oak, sweetgum, birch, and aspen) for these paper and paperboard grades are considered. Application : these factors need to be considered when selecting sites for new mills or considering a product change in an existing mill. Selecting suitable products and designing the mill to address the weaknesses of the available fiber supply will help the mill to manufacture a superior product.