A Lab Discovery May Transform How Paper Is Made

NC State’s enzyme blend slashes emissions, cuts chemicals, and boosts strength, fast-tracking sustainability in US paper manufacturing

30 Apr 2025

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed an enzyme-based process that could allow paper mills to produce stronger paper while reducing water, energy and chemical use, without requiring major changes to existing factory equipment.

The project, led by Dr Richard Venditti, introduces a blend of enzymes designed to improve how water is removed from wood pulp during paper production. By modifying parts of the pulp while strengthening fibre bonding, the enzymes make pressing and drying more efficient and increase the durability of the final paper.

“This isn’t just about making stronger paper,” Venditti explains. “It’s a chance to upgrade the industry’s environmental performance without massive capital investment.”

Laboratory tests suggest the approach could reduce the amount of energy required for drying pulp, one of the most energy-intensive stages in paper manufacturing, while also lowering the need for chemical treatments such as bleaching agents. Researchers say improved water removal could also reduce wastewater volumes and associated emissions.

A key feature of the method is that it can be integrated into existing mill processes. Because the enzymes act directly on pulp during standard processing stages, mills would not need to install new machinery to adopt the technology.

The development comes as paper producers face tighter environmental rules and pressure to cut emissions and water use. Regulations in parts of the US, including California, are increasing scrutiny of wastewater discharge and chemical consumption in industrial production.

Large manufacturers such as International Paper and Sylvamo could benefit if the process proves viable at scale. Analysts say incremental technologies that improve efficiency without requiring major capital investment are gaining attention across heavy industry.

Further trials are planned to test the enzyme blend in larger pilot systems, and researchers say discussions with potential commercial partners are under way.

If successful at industrial scale, the technology could offer paper producers a relatively low-cost way to improve both product strength and environmental performance as the sector seeks to reduce its carbon footprint.