journal article·2025-08-15Open access

Optimizing Fiber Quality in Recycled Old Corrugated Containers (OCC) Using Ultra-Fine Bar Plate Technology

Min-Sik Park, Chul-Hwan Kim, Hyeong-Hun Park, Ju-Hyun Park, Jae-Sang Lee

Applied Sciences· Volume 15· Issue 16

Abstract

This study evaluated the performance of ultra-fine bar refiner plates with a cutting edge length (CEL) of 97 km/s in enhancing the properties of Korean Old Corrugated Containers (KOCCs) compared to conventional plates with a CEL of 37 km/s. While unrefined KOCCs demonstrated compromised mechanical properties except for higher paper bulk, refining with the ultra-fine bar plate significantly improved tensile strength, tear strength, and water retention value (WRV). Although the conventional plate achieved higher stock throughput at lower specific energy, the ultra-fine bar plate proved more energy-efficient for achieving targeted fiber quality enhancements. The observed throughput plateau of the ultra-fine bar plate is attributed to its narrower groove design, which increases flow resistance. Overall, the ultra-fine bar plates offer a promising route for producing high-performance recycled paper by balancing refining energy inputs and fiber quality improvements.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Material Properties and Processing · Advanced Cellulose Research Studies · Optimization and Packing Problems

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Department of Forest Products, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea

Department of Forest Products, Institute of Agriculture and Life Science (IALS), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea

Department of Pulp & Paper Chemical Engineering, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea

Funding

Basic Science Research Program via the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) · Korea Basic Science Institute (National Research Facilities and Equipment Center)

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