Selective hydrolysis of amorphous cellulosic fines for improvement in drainage of recycled pulp based on ratios of cellulase components

Recycled pulp contains large amount of fines having high surface area and amorphous cellulose. These fines adsorb water to large extent and dewatering rate is lower compared to virgin pulp. Selective hydrolysis of these excess ultra fines through cellulase enzymes can be utilized for enhancing the drainage rate. The concept of monocomponent cellulase treatment of recycled pulp for improvement in drainage and the understanding whether effectiveness depends on a specific type of cellulase component (endoglucanase/cellobiohydrolase) is described. The improvement of ∼15–23% in pulp drainability was achieved along with better paper properties.