Starch: An integral component in the paper industry

In the paper industry, starch is generally used as an adhesive, flocculant and bonding agent. Most starches used in making paper are specialty products that have been modified via hydrolysis, oxidation, or derivatization.

It is an important component in the production of various quality paper grades. It acts as a surface sizing agent, improves appearance, restrains ink penetration, and creates a firm surface suitable for better writing and printing.

Surface sizing or paper surface hydrophilization prevents paper from wetting and water penetration. Hydrophobic particles and starch are combined at the dry end of the paper machine. The combined solution is applied to paper to enhance its strength and stiffness.

Cationic starch is also used in wet milling processes; mixing the wet end starch with pulp improves strength, sizing, retention, drainage, formation, wastewater quality, and productivity.

starch in paper industries

For the paper industry, starch is procured from potato, tapioca, maize and wheat. It is the third-largest consumer of processed starch.