The effect of old corrugated container (OCC) pulp addition on the properties of paper made with virgin softwood kraft pulps

Abstract

In this study, old corrugated container (OCC) pulp was added in different ratios (5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% w/w) to unbleached virgin pulps of both European black pine and Scots pine, and its effects on paper properties were investigated. As a control, OCC pulp-free handsheets were separately produced from European black pine and Scots pine pulps. The results indicated that the addition of OCC pulp decreased the strength properties, except for the tear index, of the handsheets. In addition, compared to the control handsheets, the paper containing the OCC pulp displayed higher air permeability. The results showed that up to 10% of the virgin softwood kraft pulp could be replaced with OCC pulp without bringing about considerable loss of strength. Also, this ratio of OCC addition could be suitable for production of wrapping papers.