Taiko Paper Mfg., Ltd. (TPM) has launched a demonstration project aimed at producing second-generation bioethanol--an essential feedstock for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Valmet has been selected to deliver a fiberline as part of the technology solution. The resulting bioethanol will be supplied to fuel companies, who will convert it into SAF for use in aviation, contributing to the decarbonization of air transport.

With a target of producing 20 million liters of bioethanol annually, TPM will develop and validate advanced production technologies that utilize kraft pulp derived from unused biomass resources--such as construction waste--as the primary raw material. The process might also incorporate enzymes produced in-house from industrial microorganisms.

"Valmet has proven washing equipment, TwinRoll Press (TRP), which enables Taiko to get higher washing efficiency as well as lower wash liquor consumption. Simpler design and easier maintenance are one of the reasons why Taiko would prefer to have TRP," says Mr. Tamotsu Maeda, CEO of Taiko Paper Mfg., Ltd.

"We are very happy that TPM selected Valmet TRP for their bioethanol project. We also feel very proud that we can involve TPM's bioethanol project which creates renewable energy from biomass. Valmet continues to contribute to building a circular society," says Hiroshi Yamashita, Head of PEC Sales and Service Japan, ANZ, Korea at Valmet.

The second-generation bioethanol plant, based on Valmet's fiberline, is planned to start-up in March 2028. This initiative is being carried out with subsidy and support from Japan's national research and development agency, the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).

The fiberline delivery includes a new screen room with knotter and fine screen, brown stock washing with TwinRoll presses, oxygen delignification and an additional post-oxygen washing stage. The TwinRoll presses are specifically designed to accommodate the needs in a bioethanol production plant and handle the exceptionally low production capacity of this line, i.e. 110 adt per day.

About the customer Taiko Paper Mfg., Ltd.

Taiko Paper Mfg. Ltd., part of Rengo Group, manufactures specialty paper for industrial use with a fully integrated production system from pulp to paper. Established in Fuji City in Japan, Taiko have produced industrial paper, concentrating on kraft paper for agricultural produce bags and chemicals and packaging paper as well as such specialty paper as stainless metals interleaving paper. The product portfolio has expanded and today the mill supplies a variety of products ranging from functional paper for electronic parts, food packaging and paper towels.