The metal removal properties of kraft lignins were examined for a series of
SW kraft pulps. The addition of purified kraft lignins to pulp fibers was
shown to result in the removal of 20 to 40% of nonprocess elements, such as
Mn, Mg, and Ca, in pulp. The effects of concentration and type and amount
of kraft lignin applied were explored. These studies illustrate that struct
ural differences in the kraft lignin affect the metal removal from pulp. Fa
ctors such as extent of delignification and cooking technology influence me
tal removal properties. In addition, we have demonstrated that a correlatio
n exists between metal removal and the content of carboxylic acids and cond
ensed phenolics in the kraft lignin applied.