Speaker
Description
Uniform sulfonation using Na₂SO₃ is critical in chemithermomechanical pulp (CTMP) production for ensuring efficient processing and high product quality. However, achieving even distribution of sulfonate groups (–SO₃⁻) across wood fibers is challenging due to variability in wood chip size. To investigate sulfur(S) at the microscale, we developed a cost-effective X-ray fluorescence (XRF) imaging system utilizing polycapillary focusing optics. This setup enables high-resolution elemental mapping, achieving a spot size of ~15 µm and spatial resolution of 15–20 µm, as confirmed with a chromium test pattern. A 3D-printed sealed chamber enables helium flushing, significantly enhancing the detection of low atomic number elements, particularly sodium (Na). XRF imaging of CTMP sheets reveals the distribution contours of S along individual wood fibers. This method offers a practical tool for evaluating and optimizing sulfonation uniformity during fiber impregnation in industrial CTMP processes.
| Workshop topics | Applications |
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