"HIGH-ENERGY ELECTRON IRRADIATION OF ANNUAL PLANTS (BAGASSE) FOR AN EFFICIENT PRODUCTION OF CHEMI-MECHANICAL PULP FIBERS"

Abstract

The pulping concept of ETMP (Energy Efficient Thermo-Mechanical Pulping) or ECTMP (Energy Efficient Chemi-Thermo Mechanical Pulping) is an innovative idea for reducing the energy demand in mechanical pulping. In the present investigation mechanical pulping potential of bagasse were studied using TMP, CTMP and ECTMP pulping methodology. The experimental trials with electron beam exposure and subsequent pulping have been carried out at Radebcrg and I-Ieinsberg (Germany) laboratory. Evaluation of puips was conducted at the laboratory of TIJ Dresden. Germany. Results of corresponding investigation, which have been carried out in the limited time were found encouraging. This study explored the potential of new approach adopted fr energy savings and quality improvement. Results of the investigation are presented in this thesis as the first attempt to apply electron beam irradiation to bagasse fiber to examine the energy saving potential. The effects of irradiation on energy saving and paper properties are discussed in detail. The studies indicate that there is potential of more than 50 % energy saving by irradiation pretreatment of bagasse prior CTMP when compared with TMP of bagasse.