Metsä Group’s (Helsinki, Finland) next-generation bioproduct mill in Äänekoski, Finland reached its nominal capacity in August 2018, according to plan, the company announced on Monday (Aug., 13, 2018). This makes Metsä Group the world’s largest producer of softwood market pulp. The bioproduct mill produced its one millionth metric ton of pulp on August 8 of this year.

The bioproduct mill was started up on August 15, 2017, on schedule and within budget. The start-up phase progressed in line with the target curve.

 

 

The bioproduct mill produces 1.3 million metric tpy of high-quality softwood and birch pulp, in addition to other bioproducts, such as tall oil, turpentine, and bioenergy. New bioproducts that already complement the product portfolio include product gas from bark, sulphuric acid from the mill’s odorous gases, and biogas from the sludge from its wastewater treatment plant, as well as biofuel pellets.

The bioproduct mill serves as a platform for the production of new bioproducts, as well as further developing and expanding the industrial ecosystem in Äänekoski. Metsä Group is actively exploring various processes and product paths. Key bioproduct development projects include pulp-based lignin products and textile fibers.