A microscopic investigation of the surfaces of Kraft pulp papermaking fibres

To maintain its innovative and competitive edge the forestry sector is focused on conducting research into more efficient ways of manufacturing current products and generating new markets for by-products and technologies. It is the surface of pulp fibres which are of fundamental importance to the pulp and paper industry. A better understanding of the chemistry and morphology of Kraft pulp fibres is the primary motivation for this Master's thesis study.;Through this work, we will show that simple and straight applications of newer technologies (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Atomic Force microscopy, Optical Microscopy and Differential Scanning Calorimetry) could be employed by the pulp and paper industry to determine the surface chemistry of Kraft Pulp fibres (and therefore other lignocellulosic fibres). The effect that variability in the surface composition of such fibres has on industrial applications is commented on.