An Analysis of the Wash and Flotation Deinking Processes

The purpose of this paper is to obtain data, so that we may compare the ability of Floatation vs. Wash deinking to produce a paper of equal standards as the original unprinted base-stock. It was determined that both flotation and wash deinked stock with the addition of 40% fresh pulp can produce a paper of equal physical and optical properties as the unprinted stock from which it was made. Floatation deinked stock was found have a higher materials cost, however, it displayed better strength and opacity properties than wash deinked stock. The difference is thought to result from a large fines loss in the wash deinking process