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Summaries from TAPPI Journal February 2025 and March 2025 Issues

TAPPI Journal's latest research delivers critical insights for process optimization and advanced manufacturing applications. Key studies include AI-driven papermaking process control achieving 15% chemical dosage reduction and 80% improvement in wet tensile consistency, microfibrillated cellulose barrier coating innovations for sustainable food packaging, and breakthrough nanocellulose microsphere production via spray drying. Additional research covers electrospun cellulose acetate nanocomposites, COVID-19 filtration performance analysis, and predictive chemistry management solutions. These peer-reviewed findings provide manufacturing engineers and R&D leaders with actionable technical knowledge for improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and meeting sustainability targets in specialty paper production.

My TAPPI Story: Jimmy Jong - Nano Division

Jimmy Zhang shares his 28-year TAPPI journey, highlighting how nano division involvement accelerated his career in cellulose nanomaterials development. As a committee leader in the nano community, he demonstrates how TAPPI membership connects young professionals with industry experts working on cutting-edge research, from papermaking processes to sustainable plastic alternatives. Zhang emphasizes the networking advantages and leadership opportunities within TAPPI's specialized divisions, particularly for professionals developing innovative cellulose-based solutions for traditional and non-traditional applications in the evolving pulp and paper industry.

Machine Health for Pulp and Paper Webinar

This TAPPI webinar explores machine health solutions for pulp and paper manufacturers, featuring industry experts discussing predictive maintenance strategies to combat unplanned downtime and operational challenges. Mid-career professionals learn how AI-driven analytics deliver predictive insights that optimize asset lifecycle, reduce MRO costs, and improve production capacity. The presentation covers implementation strategies, environmental considerations for harsh paper mill conditions, and real-world case studies showing ROI achievement within 1-6 months. Topics include overcoming change management barriers, building technician trust in AI systems, and integrating machine health programs with existing maintenance strategies for enhanced reliability and operational excellence.

Better Together: 2022 CorrWeek Episode 1

Core Week 2022 podcast features industry leaders driving digital transformation in corrugated packaging manufacturing. Hayarkon CEO Shlomo Nimrodi discusses converting analog finishing processes to digital solutions for enhanced sustainability and agility. Baldwin Technology's Jonathan Ford showcases spectral UV curing technology that improves print quality while reducing energy consumption and workplace safety risks. Productivity Software's Alex Zlotych demonstrates how automation systems optimize corrugator operations, reduce waste, and accelerate employee onboarding by 60%. The Paper and Packaging Board's Sarah Meiburg introduces the free Box to Nature program, helping manufacturers communicate recycling benefits directly to consumers through packaging graphics, supporting the industry's sustainability messaging and fiber recovery goals.

Better Together: 2022 CorrWeek Episode 2

Join industry leaders from Corrugated Week 2022 as they explore cutting-edge automation, IoT, and Industry 4.0 solutions transforming box manufacturing operations. Featured guests including Jonathan Lust from Signode Industrial Group, Christine Little from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, and Brian Cantor from Sun Automation Group discuss predictive maintenance technologies, machine learning applications, and strategies for addressing labor shortages while maximizing equipment efficiency. Learn how advanced unitization systems, digital printing innovations, and automated material handling are helping mid-career plant managers and R&D leads optimize production throughput, reduce downtime, and demonstrate clear ROI to leadership teams.

Better Together: Olli-Pekka Riippa, AFT

AFT Finland's product manager Olli-pekka discusses how the company developed innovative Max Edge refining technology during the pandemic using global virtual collaboration across Canada, Finland, and Japan. This advanced refiner integrates proven FineBar segment technology to deliver remarkable energy savings, with one Scandinavian mill achieving 50% energy reduction while maintaining pulp quality. The discussion covers customized refining solutions for different fiber types, sustainability trends driving mill operations, and AFT's new IoT platform providing 24/7 remote monitoring and optimization services. Industry professionals learn how refined segment design directly impacts paper strength, formation, and drainage characteristics for tissue, packaging, and emerging sustainable products replacing single-use plastics.

Koehler's NexPlus® Advanced Paper Revolutionizes Organic Meal Packaging

Deep tech startup turns captured carbon into sustainable fuels

"Since CO is already compatible with existing industrial systems, the solution allows companies to reduce emissions without costly infrastructure changes." — Antti Arasto, VTT

World’s Most Northerly Paper Mill Makes Sustainable Choices

A retrofit solution with new energy-efficient circuit breakers was a perfect match when a decades-old switchgear needed new life.

Sofidel Enhances Safety and Efficiency with AMESPHERE from AME

Sofidel has experienced enhanced safety and increased efficiency across its mills in Italy through the installation of the innovative AMESPHERE anticollision solution from AME.