Chemical Additives in Papermaking: A Game-Changer for Dry Strength
Print this Article | Send to Colleague
Papermaking is a continuous journey, requiring industry professionals to navigate equipment limitations and operational inefficiencies. Even the most experienced papermakers often face challenges in achieving optimal dry strength properties using mechanical solutions alone. To bridge this gap, chemical additives have emerged as a key solution for enhancing the mechanical properties of paper products.
At TAPPICon 2025, Curtis Powell and John Kimbleton of Nalco Water, an Ecolab Company, will present "Improving Dry Strength Properties Utilizing Chemical Additives," offering an in-depth look at how these additives improve paper quality and performance. As part of the Equipment, Processes & Operations topic, Powell and Kimbleton will explore various dry strength additives—including starches, polyacrylamides, and other strengthening agents—used to enhance fiber bonding, burst strength, short span compression, and crush resistance. Their presentation will highlight the mechanisms behind these additives, their impact on the papermaking process, and how they contribute to the production of high-quality, durable paper products.
Balancing cost and performance is essential in papermaking, and attendees will learn strategies for optimizing additive use while maintaining efficiency and sustainability. They will also gain valuable insights into how chemical advancements can help mills improve operational performance and product quality.
Equipment, Processes & Operations
Equipment, Processes & Operations is one of six key topic areas addressed at TAPPICon 2025. The topic focuses on advanced solutions aimed at optimizing processes and equipment to enhance production efficiency, product quality, and operational reliability across all segments of the forest products industry. Presentations emphasize fundamentals of engineering, optimization and operation with advanced technologies.
The topic consists of expert presentations delivered within five sessions, each offering a deep dive into critical aspects of the industry:
- Peace of Mind with Smooth Operations
- It’s All About Energy
- Safe Operations of Continuous Digesters in Kraft Mills
- Achieving the Right Amount of Strength
- Pulp & Paper Success Stories
View full program
TAPPICon
TAPPICon 2025, May 4-7 in Minneapolis, Minn., brings together an anticipated 1,800 industry leaders, innovators and professionals from around the world for an enhanced program that addresses the most pressing challenges in the forest products industry. With the theme, Collaborate - Educate – Elevate, the Conference features over 200+ presentations centered around six key topics impacting all segments of the industry. Complementing these topics are three in-depth, division-led technical tracks that delve deeper into the latest processes and advancements available in the forest products industry.
The event offers multiple networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect with industry peers, leading experts, and key decision-makers. Attendees will also experience a large Solution Center (formerly Exhibit Hall) with over 100 top suppliers showcasing the latest innovations in equipment, chemicals, and technology.
Registration
TAPPICon offers special pricing for mill groups, students, and TAPPI Members. Register by April 1, 2025 and save up to $500 with early bird rates.
Visit TAPPICon.org for additional information and sponsorship opportunities.
