Short fiber fluff cellulose industry: Economic viability and energy potential

Abstract

The short fiber fluff cellulose industry, although it is still a recent technology in Brazil, given its use in the market for absorbent and disposable diapers, has been increasing in recent years. Regardless of the search for alternative sources of obtaining pulp with a higher degree of purity, the present work also aimed at reducing environmental impacts, focusing on the production of energy, replacing fossil fuels with waste generated in the process, such as biomass and black liquor. Making possible the implementation of a fluff pulp industry in the municipality of Teófilo Otoni/MG. The theoretical study followed the production process methodology involving the separation of cellulose from the other components of wood fibers, such as hemicellulose and lignin, using for that, wood short fiber. Within this context, it was possible to conclude that, with the product having a brightness of 85-95%, it will present 90% fibers and 10% water in its final composition. It is also anticipated that the industry will operate 24 hours daily. In this way, the industrial project is expected to produce 62.5 ton / h of work and through economic analysis, the return on investment was realized in the four-month period.