Raw material

Paper towels are a simple paper product, yet they must meet stringent performance requirements. They are widely used in households, medical facilities, and commercial environments, and must deliver critical properties such as water absorbency, softness, and hygiene.

The primary raw materials include:

Primary wood pulp: Typically a blend of softwood and hardwood pulp. Softwood pulp has longer fibers, providing strength and flexibility—ideal fo
r products requiring high quality (e.g., kitchen paper, facial tissues).
Recycled pulp: Derived from waste paper recycling, it has a low environmental impact and lower cost, but consists of short fibers and therefore has reduced strength. It is often mixed with virgin pulp for products like toilet paper or low-load applications.

Figure 1. Pulp at a paper mill near Pensacola, 1947[6]

Additives:
- Wet strength agents (e.g., polyamide epichlorohydrin): enhance strength under wet conditions.
- Softeners (e.g.silicone oil derivatives): improve the feel of the tissue.
- Bleaching agents (e.g., chlorine or hydrogen peroxide): used to enhance visual cleanliness and hygiene.

Material

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