Next Step Beyond ECF Conversion Should Focus on Plant Optimization

摘要

Now that numerous pulp and paper mills have converted their bleaching processes to elemental chlorine free (ECF), what can be done to minimize operating costs? The operating cost for substituting chlorine dioxide for chlorine is inevitably higher. The industry is again in of position of weak demand, with intense pressure on prices and narrow profit margins. The industry is also under pressure from financial markets demanding increased return on investments. Operating companies are consolidating and under pressure to reduce the subsequent debt.