What is deinked?

The process of deinking involves the removal of ink, glue, and other contaminants from wastepaper that has already been printed on. This is done in order to recycle the paper and reuse it in the production of new paper products. Deinking can be achieved through a variety of methods, including flotation, washing, and enzymatic treatment.

Flotation deinking involves the use of chemicals to separate the ink from the pulp fibers. This method is effective for removing most types of ink, but can result in the loss of some fiber material.

Washing deinking involves the use of water to wash away the ink and other contaminants. This method is less effective than flotation deinking, but it results in less fiber loss and is therefore preferred for high-grade paper products.

Enzymatic deinking uses enzymes to break down the ink and other contaminants. This method is particularly effective for removing certain types of ink, such as soy-based ink, and results in minimal fiber loss.

Overall, deinking is an important step in the paper recycling process, as it allows for the reuse of valuable resources and reduces waste.