Authors: Hiroshi Julian Goldsmid
Keywords: Enzymatic pulping, Green paper production, Xylanase, Biobleaching, Sustainable manufacturing,\r\nFiber modification
Abstract:
Sustainable paper production has become a focal point in the global effort to reduce the environmental\r\nfootprint of industrial processes. Traditional pulping methods—especially chemical pulping—are\r\nenergy-intensive and generate significant environmental pollutants. Enzymatic pulping, a\r\nbiotechnological alternative, has emerged as a cleaner and more efficient approach that reduces\r\nchemical use and energy consumption while improving pulp quality. This paper presents a\r\ncomprehensive study of advances in enzymatic pulping technology, its biochemical mechanisms,\r\nindustrial applicability, and environmental benefits. The research evaluates enzyme types, such as\r\nxylanases, cellulases, and lignin-degrading oxidoreductases, emphasizing their synergistic roles in\r\ndelignification and fiber modification. The study further explores the optimization of enzymatic\r\nreactions, integration with existing pulping systems, and economic feasibility. Results indicate that\r\nenzymatic pulping can enhance fiber flexibility, improve brightness, and decrease effluent load by up\r\nto 40%. The discussion highlights the potential of hybrid enzymatic-mechanical approaches and the\r\nfuture direction toward fully biobased paper production systems.