Process integration in pulp and paper mills for energy and water reduction - A review

Abstract

Process integration (including pinch analysis) is a holistic or systems approach to process design and optimisation, which considers the interactions and interdependences between individual unit operations or process elements. Large reductions in both energy and water use in pulp and paper mills has been demonstrated using process integration techniques. A review of the current process integration techniques for energy and water reduction, with a focus on application to the pulp and paper industry is presented in this paper. The concurrent application of heat integration and water/mass integration analysis is discussed. Particular focus is given to published case studies. The integration of biorefineries into existing mills and the energy and water use implications is also receiving much attention and this development is also reviewed.