Modification and optimum treatment of fibres 

Chemical, mechanical and enzymatic modifications of fibrous raw materials open up opportunities to paper products such as novel geometries, reduced weight, higher strength or new use functions. PTS makes use of nano-scale celluloses, Polyelectrolyte multilayer (PEM) and  functional polymers

Nano-scale celluloses are extracted from fibre walls by combined chemical-enzymatic and mechanical treatment processes. Their very high accessible surface and affinity to fibres allow strength gains without bulk losses or the treatment of composites for use in paper and other applications.

The modification of fibre walls by means of polyelectrolytes forming alternating cationic and anionic layers of just a few nano- or micrometers thickness leads to the development of strength properties in paper which evolve independently of refining. This makes it possible to save considerable amounts of drying energy.

Functional polymers based on cellulose, hemicelluloses and starch are particularly suitable for improving the properties of fibres and paper whilst ensuring sustainable papermaking processes. Controlling the charge properties of fibres is particularly important here because it determines the interactions with cationic additives.