The pulp and paper industry is one of the most water-intensive sectors in the world since water is essential to every step of the production process, from wood preparation to paper finishing. Managing and treating water effectively is made more difficult by such dependency. This document outlines the primary water treatment challenges in the pulp and paper industry and offers effective solutions, emphasising the innovative chemical products of Mapril that address these issues. Why Water Treatment Matters Producing one ton of paper can require up to 100,000 litres of water. While much of this is recycled, it still must be treated thoroughly to:

• Meet environmental discharge standards
• Prevent equipment damage
• Ensure process efficiency

Key Water Treatment Challenges & Solutions

1. High Organic Load (BOD/COD)

Challenge: Pulping releases lignin and other organics, resulting in high BOD and COD. Solution:

• Biological treatment systems (e.g., activated sludge, MBBR)
• Anaerobic digesters for pre-treatment and energy recovery
• Mapril Solution: Speciality biological treatments and coagulants from Mapril’s INDFLOC and POLYDRAIN ranges.

2. Persistent Colour in Effluent

Challenge: Lignin causes dark-colored effluent that’s difficult to treat. Solution:

• Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs): Ozone, Fenton’s reagent
• Activated carbon and membrane filtration
• Mapril Solution: Colour removal agents, such as INDFLOC 856, 857, and 859 M.

3. Foaming and Odour

Challenge: Foam disrupts operations; odours from microbial activity affect workplace conditions. Solution:

• Defoamers and biocides
• Proper aeration and closed-loop systems
• Mapril Solution: INDFOAM series (3000 HS, 3001, 1500) and INDSLIME biocides (1014 to 1020).

4. Scaling and Corrosion

Challenge: Hardness and low pH cause scaling and corrosion. Solution:

• Chemical dosing (antiscalants, corrosion inhibitors)
• Water softening and pH control
• Mapril Solution: Process chemicals that reduce scaling and corrosion risks while optimising system performance.

5. Variability in Effluent Volume

Challenge: Production changes lead to fluctuating wastewater loads. Solution:

• Equalisation tanks to buffer the flow
• Real-time monitoring systems
• Mapril Solution: Custom chemical dosing programs for varying load conditions.

Mapril’s Industry Expertise Mapril is a trusted partner for the pulp & paper sector, offering:

• Defoamers: INDFOAM 3000 HS, 3001, 1500
• Fixing Agents & Drainage Aids: INDFLOC 2048 C, POLYDRAIN 243 H
• Biocides & Slimicides: INDSLIME series, ClO₂
• Colour Removal Agents: INDFLOC 856, 857, 859 M

With a focus on sustainability, Mapril’s solutions help mills meet strict environmental regulations while optimising operational efficiency. Conclusion Water treatment in the pulp & paper industry is complex but manageable with the right strategy and chemical support. Mapril offers comprehensive, effective solutions tailored to industry-specific challenges.