52nd International Annual Symposium DITP
Thursday, 22. 10. 2026
Programme - Abstract summaries
PAGE 1: New papermaking solutions
BIOTECHNOLOGY INSTEAD OF CHEMISTRY: SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS FOR WATER MANAGEMENT IN THE PAPER INDUSTRY
Servophil demonstrates how its S-BACPRO functional bacteria enable biocide-free water management in paper mills by reducing chemical consumption while improving process stability and machine cleanliness. In a closed-loop paper mill, the treatment reduced organic deposits by up to 40%, while the reduction of odour-causing compounds and the elimination of neighbourhood odour complaints were observed as positive side effects.
Demeter Taraszenko, Lionel Pomade
Servophil AG, Hünenberg, Switzerland
DRY STRENGTH CONCEPT INCLUDING ONSITE GPAM AND SOFT SENSOR MONITORING
Presentation is describing how to create value by optimizing recycled board production cost with Kemira’s dry strength concept including onsite GPAM and soft sensor service.
Kemira KTM, Helsinki, Finland
LIMESTONE, MARBLE AND CHALK – FROM MINERAL STRUCTURE TO GCC PIGMENTS
The presentation compares limestone, marble, and chalk – from their geological formation and mineral structure to their behaviour during crushing and grinding. It will show how differences in structure and fracture mechanisms affect particle morphology and the abrasiveness of the resulting GCC pigments used in the paper industry.
Blaž Slabajna, Mateja Černevšek, Dr. Boris Brus, Dr. Saide Umerova
Calcit, Stahovica, Slovenia
PAGE 2: Novel approaches and products
AI-ENABLED COMPETENCE DEVELOPMENT IN THE PULP AND PAPER INDUSTRY: A DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION CASE
The presentation shows how trustworthy AI can improve access to technical knowledge and support learning, decision-making and innovation in the forest-based bioeconomy. Findings are based on real-world customer experiences in the context of an operational digital learning environment and database.
Finnish Forest Products Engineers’ Association, Espoo, Finland
EXAMPLE OF SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING DESIGN FOR SIBERIAN BLUEBERRIES
The presentation explores the development of a farm’s visual identity and functional packaging for haskap berries, designed according to the principles of sustainable design. The results demonstrate how thoughtful material selection combined with minimalist graphic and structural design can bring together product protection, brand recognition, and environmental responsibility.
Tanja Medved, Lana Kastelic, Prof. Dr. Diana Gregor-Svetec
Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
LIGNIN: UNTAPPED VALUE IN THE PAPER INDUSTRY – FROM ISOLATION TO MODIFICATION
Lignin is the most abundant natural source of aromatic carbon; however, due to its complex structure, less than 2% of lignin is currently utilized, as it is predominantly burned for energy. In this study, we investigated the effects of different delignification processes on the properties of isolated lignin and transformed it, through chemical modification, depolymerization, and conversion into nanoparticles or quantum dots, into a feedstock for the development of sustainable materials and high-value-added chemicals.
Jan Hočevar, Jelena Papan Djaniš, Jernej Iskra
Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
PAPER AND PAPER PACKAGING PRODUCTION FUTURE RESILIENCE: GOING BEYOND BASICS
A systemic approach to monitoring material flows and environmental impacts across the entire life cycle, combined with an assessment of stakeholders along the production chain, can facilitate risk management amidst the current poly-crisis. The presentation will highlight the potential of using LCA and S-LCA analyses to map risks and opportunities for enhancing the future resilience of the paper and packaging industry.
Pulp and Paper Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
PAGE 3: Innovations in fibers and stock preparation
TISSUE OPTIMIZATION AND COST REDUCTION THROUGH ENZYME USAGE
The use of enzymes to increase strength in the production of tissue, paper, and board allows for reduced refining, which can be leveraged to cut costs and save energy. The use of enzymes for treating wet-strength broke has also become well-established. The presentation explains the mechanism of action of these enzymes and demonstrates their benefits through case studies.
Petrofer GmbH, Hildesheim, Germany
TEXTILE WASTE - A COMPETITIVE FIBER SOURCE FOR PAPERBOARD AND LINER
The study explores the conversion of cotton textile waste into papermaking fibres as a complementary recycling pathway for textiles. Results show that incorporating 30% textile-derived fibres can deliver equal or improved mechanical performance compared with conventional cartonboard stock, with energy requirements comparable to virgin mechanical pulp production. The findings highlight the potential to divert lower-grade cotton textiles into packaging production.
Dr. Thomas Harter, Alexander Weissensteiner, Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hirn
Institute of Bioproducts and Paper Technology, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
EXTENDED LIFETIME FOR SCREENING AND REFINING PERFORMANCE COMPONENTS
Pulp screening and refining are essential processes in paper and board production, where highly contaminated furnish can cause abrasive wear, operational challenges and shorter lifetime of performance parts. Correct process simulation, optimized parameters and advanced materials can extend component lifetime, solve operational problems and significantly reduce operating costs while achieving the desired pulp and paper properties.
Mr. Kimmo Nurminen1, Dr. Jens Heymer2
1Aikawa Fiber Technologies, Helsinki, Finnland
2Aikawa Fiber Technologies, Montreal, Canada
Presenters: Mr. Francois Labbe AFT / Michael Kremsner - Flowtec Industrietechnik GmbH
PAGE 4: Potentials in energy savings
HOW TO ACHIEVE SIGNIFICANT ENERGY SAVINGS WITH OPTIMIZED PUMPING SYSTEMS
Optimizing pump systems offers significant potential for reducing energy consumption, operating costs, and CO₂ emissions in pulp and paper mills by combining high-efficiency pumps and motors, optimized piping systems, and variable speed control. Regular performance assessments and modernization of existing installations can deliver rapid payback while improving long-term plant competitiveness and sustainability.
Axel Döring, Stefan Leder
Andritz AG, Graz, Austria
INFLUENCE OF DRYER FABRIC CONTAMINATION ON DRYING PERFORMANCE: EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSIS
This study compares new and used dryer fabrics of three types using controlled dynamic drying tests rig. Results show that contamination significantly reduces permeability, leading to lower specific evaporation and increasing drying time.
1Claus Roberts, 2Nenad Milosavljević
ROBASMART EZ ECO CLEANER
The RobaSmart EZ eco cleaner as a sustainable cleaning system for paper and tissue machines that significantly reduces water, energy, and chemical consumption while improving fabric and felt cleanliness.
A reference installation at International Paper demonstrates major annual savings, fewer sheet breaks, and a return on investment of less than five months.
MAGNETIC-LEVITATION TURBO VACUUM FOR PAPER MACHINES: THE LEVIO PLATFORM AND THE FIRST EUROPEAN INSTALLATION AT UMKA
IBS–PPG MagLev Turbo Blowers, Teufenbach-Katsch, Austrija