Degree project - Influence of birch black liquor to softwood kraft pulp cooking at Billerud

Goal 

The aim of this thesis is to evaluate the use of birch black liquor in the production of softwood pulp at Billerud, by conducting laboratory cooking studies similar to full-scale process conditions and investigating different levels of interchangeability of black liquor. 

Background

At Billerud, we are convinced that working together with other companies, universities and research institutes is the best way to tap into new thinking concerning improved packaging materials in a circular approach. The purpose of the department Innovation, Product and Application Development is to create new materials that can replace fossil-based materials with more sustainable alternatives based on forest raw materials. The major challenge for cellulosic materials is to improve certain properties, such as extensibility, strength or barriers to water vapor and other gases and to produce these materials in a resource and energy efficient way.  

When birch black liquor is added to the softwood kraft cook, dissolved birch xylan can be adsorbed to the softwood fibers and contributing to increase yield and pulp strength. The task is to look at how the technology can be implemented in full scale with the conditions that exist and to map how much potential there is for the current process. 

Project 

The work that will be carried out involves the following activities: 

• Literature study on birch black liquor in the production of softwood pulp
• Mapping mill conditions  
• Execute laboratory cooking studies 

Timetable 

The project preferably starts in january 2025. A detailed schedule will be defined together with the candidate. 

Location 

Lab premises at Billerud Gruvön and our labs located at Karlstad University. 

To be able to successfully contribute to this degree project, we believe that you are a master student in physics, chemical engineering or equivalent. To be able to carry out the practical part of the degree project, you need to be present in our laboratories at KaU. The work can also involve trips to Gruvön.

Our values are central in our business and we believe that you recognize yourself in: we care for each other and we do what we say.

For any questions, please contact thomas.lindstedt@billerud.com or christophe.barbier@billerud.com

Candidates apply with the Billerud application system by submitting a personal letter, CV and grades. Applications are evaluated continuously, and the project will start as soon as a suitable candidate has been hired. The deadline for applications is 2024-12-15.