Hardwood kraft pulp fibre oxidation using acidic hydrogen peroxide

Abstract Gaining insight into the oxidation of hardwood kraft fibres using hydrogen peroxide at mildly acidic conditions was main aim this study. The oxidized pulp had an increased number carbonyl groups and, when formed sheets, enhanced durability in water seen due to formation cross-links, known as hemiacetals. were found be mainly ketones with exception case longer reaction times (60–90 minutes) 85 °C, where aldehydes detected. Through compositional analysis it that xylan oxidized, likely higher amount close surface fibre wall. influence on process investigated cold caustic extraction (CCE) performed prior oxidation. When CCE there rate introduced and degradation more pronounced. This is accessible area being increased, caused by pores lower molecular weight extracted during CCE.