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Mountains of waste could lead to new U.S. manufacturing, jobs
By Kathleen Phillips, Texas A&M University Researchers at Texas A&M University are exploring ways that lignin waste from pulp and paper operations can be transformed into carbon fibers used in a range of products from tennis rackets to automobiles.
News
National Labs explore energy-efficient solutions for paper industry
Researchers at two national laboratories are developing new computer simulations that could help papermakers improve energy efficiency and cut energy costs. The project is part of the Department of Energy’s HPC4Mfg initiative, a multi-lab effort to use high-performance computing to address complex challenges in US manufacturing. Project outcomes could have significant benefits; the papermaking industry ranks third among the nation’s largest energy users, behind only petroleum-refining and chemical production, according to the US Energy Information Administration.
News
The Knowledge Trail
MURRAY ELLIS One of the most rewarding and enjoyable parts of my career in the pulp and paper industry has been the opportunity to investigate and solve problems. The problem-solving process means that you are discovering, adapting and generating new information to address the problem at hand. In simple terms, you are acquiring knowledge in the pursuit of a solution. However, sometimes this problem-solving process does not find a solution easily.
News
Redefining the Future: News from PaperCon 2017
This annual event combines an expert-led technical program with a world-class exhibit. AoTC reports back from Minneapolis on some of this week’s event highlights.
News
Mentors Can Make A Difference
Got relationship goals? A new ‘Mentor Match’ program for the pulp, paper, and related industries can help. Building leadership skills, gaining process knowledge, and collecting sage advice are all benefits associated with having a mentor. Mentors can also help their mentees gain that almost intangible “feel for the industry” that can lead to higher job success and satisfaction. According to a recent article by Forbes.com contributor Kaytie Zimmerman, “among millennials, there is a collective shout to employers to develop them, mentor them, and give them opportunities to lead. Companies that offer their youngest employees the ability to grow within their organization are more likely to hang on to them or prevent job-hopping.”
News
Well-managed forests are key to a low carbon future
PHIL RIEBEL In countries such as Canada and the US, continually improving sustainable forest management practices will play a key role in mitigating climate change and ensuring a long-term wood supply. Yesterday (March 21) was celebrated around the world as International Day of Forests and this year’s theme was Forests and Energy.
News
Side-stream, byproduct – or revenue source?
“One person’s trash is another person’s treasure,” the saying goes. Yet this need not only apply to resale store bargains and attic discoveries. For pulp and paper companies, the concept of finding value in process by-products can mean large-scale gains. These additional revenue sources are a boon in a highly competitive global market, and are sparking the development of innovations that boost sustainability as well as the bottom line.
News
Sack and kraft packaging demand is shifting to consumer application
JOHN NELSON World demand for sack and kraft paper used in packaging is set for healthy annual growth of three percent across the next five years, according to the latest exclusive research from Smithers Pira.
News
Prisma finds application for biomass waste lignin
CORTNEY ROARK Using feedstock that includes locally-sourced switchgrass, a Knoxville, TN company has developed technology that produces high-value applications from lignin. The company’s CEO, Adam McCall, Prisma Renewable Composites, was interviewed recently for a story in the Knoxville News Sentinel.
News
China’s paper industry: Adjusting to change
MARK RUSHTON This article first appeared in the March/April issue of Paper360°, TAPPI’s member magazine