Generation of Waste in Pulp and Paper Mills

Abstract

In the Pulp and Paper Industry several types of solid wastes and sludge are generated. Solid waste is mainly produced from pulping, deinking processes and wastewater treatment. The waste generation is strongly affected by the production process and wastewater treatment technologies. About 40–50 kg of sludge (dry) is generated in the production of 1 tonne of paper at a paper mill and of that approximately 70 % is primary sludge and 30 % secondary sludge. The amount of sludge on a dry mass basis may vary from 20 % in a newsprint mill to 40 % in a tissue mill. The data on waste generated in pulp and paper mills and deinking mills are presented in this chapter. Waste generated through production of different paper grades from recycled fibre are also presented.