Brazilian pulp company Klabin launched PineFluff eXcel, a fluff pulp produced from a mix of eucalyptus (hardwood) and pine (softwood) fibers for the personal care market (such as baby and adult diapers, feminine pads and hygienic mats for pets). The solution is a pioneer in the fiber mix, and expands different design alternatives, improving aspects of liquid retention and distribution, as well as the softness of the final product.
In the laboratory, great potential of the shredded material was also observed, a factor that collaborates with the perception of softness to the touch and comfort in the use of the product. In addition, there are competitive advantages associated with logistical distribution, packaging optimization and lower energy consumption in production.
According to Alexandre Nicolini, director of Klabin’s Pulp Business, the company constantly invests in research and innovation in order to expand the possibilities for using wood and, consequently, the solutions offered to the market.
“The production of softwood pulp, which comes from pine, is a major competitive advantage for Klabin. The development of solutions based on the fiber mix is part of our roadmap, especially as it is a way to maximize the use of each fiber, delivering a product optimized for customer needs and that combines traditional operational performance with differentiated application properties,” explains the executive.
PineFluff eXcel is the result of five years of work, in line with the company’s efforts towards innovation, at Klabin’s Technology. The solution was supported by the commercial, R&D, industrial and technical services to customers
The company was already evaluating the production of the fiber mix in a single product and identified in the market the demand for complementary alternatives to 100% softwood pulp, which would deliver good performance to applications.
The solution is already being produced at the Puma Unit and was designed to reach the customer in the form of a single sheet reel, which can be used in different absorbent products. In order to optimize production, the company invested in the integration of softwood and hardwood production lines, with the project expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2023.
“Klabin has innovation in its DNA and, once again, we are at the forefront of launches that integrate productivity and competitiveness, providing the customer with a pioneering solution in the market. PineFluff eXcel arrives to add to the company’s portfolio, strengthening the range available to the market in order to meet the different needs of customers”, concludes Nicolini.
The product is available for domestic and foreign markets.
