With spiraling costs of materials, energy, and its environmental load, the paper and allied industries have identified a critical need for dematerialization, or the ability to deliver the same level of functionality with less material. For the paper industry, the stated goals are, reduce costs, and, to reduce the basis weight, while maintaining caliper (higher bulk) and key strength and optical properties. In order to satisfy these goals, need, it will require a significant new approach. This paper will present a novel approach where GR Nano Materials has developed and employed unique synthetic silicate nano - fibers to reduce the basis weight, while maintaining or improving bulk 40 - 50 %, as well as providing a higher strength index (strength-to-weight ratio), and high optical index (higher opacity-to-weight ratio) at a lower cost. In addition, the paper will discuss application of multiple nano and macro size calcium carbonates particles produced by a high pressure, high speed carbonation process. This paper will discuss the key product attributes of these synthetic nano-fibers and nano materials. The development and application of nano materials in paper will include lab, pilot, and commercial scale paper machine trials and market testing. Several other case studies will be included, highlighting the value propositions such as reduction in basis weight, reduction in TiO_2, optimizing fillers and reducing fiber consumption. In summary, this paper will present a significant paradigm shift for the paper industry by employing synthetic nano materials.
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