Small-scale Papermaking (Paperback)

This text provides technical and economic information on alternative paper-making technologies and describes the characteristics of various types and grades of paper products, offering guidance in the choice of paper machines. The information relates mostly to small-scale paper mills with a capacity of 30 tonnes of paper per day or less. The raw materials suggested for such mills include straw, bagasse, waste paper, rags and cotton waste, as well as other agricultural residues and imported wood pulp. The book is not a technical introduction to paper-making in general, nor is it a basic textbook on the subject. Instead it provides people already in possession of the necessary bacground knowledge with criteria for choosing amongst various methods of paper-making; it is not sufficient for the establishment or operation of the small-scale production facilities outlined. Established or would-be paper manufacturers will need to obtain additional information and equipment from equipment suppliers, engineering firms or specialized institutions. For this purpose, the names and addresses of some of these are provided in separate appendices. The text also provides information on the various socio-economic effects of alternative paper-making technologies and scales of production, including employment generation, foreign exchange savings, rural industrialization, and so on. It also gives some guidelines for government action in support of appropriate paper-making technologies.