Wood pulp; obtained by a combination of mechanical and chemical pulping processes

HS code 470500 covers wood pulp produced through a combination of mechanical and chemical pulping processes. This type of pulp is a crucial raw material for the paper and paperboard industry, which is a significant contributor to the global economy. The production of this wood pulp is an essential step in the manufacturing of a wide range of paper products, from printing and writing paper to packaging materials, making it a vital component of many industries.

The production of wood pulp under HS code 470500 involves a combination of mechanical and chemical pulping processes. Mechanically, the wood is ground or refined to separate the fibers, while chemical processes, such as the use of sulfite or kraft (sulfate) methods, help to break down the lignin and other non-cellulosic components of the wood. This dual approach results in a pulp with improved strength, brightness, and other desirable properties compared to pulp produced through solely mechanical or chemical means.

The main inputs required for the production of wood pulp under HS code 470500 include various types of wood, such as softwood and hardwood species, as well as chemicals used in the chemical pulping processes, such as sulfur compounds, sodium hydroxide, and other reagents. Additionally, specialized machinery, such as grinders, refiners, and digesters, are essential for the mechanical and chemical processing of the wood.

The primary output of HS code 470500 is wood pulp, which is then used as a raw material in the production of a wide range of paper and paperboard products. This pulp may be further processed or blended with other types of pulp to create specific paper grades, such as 480100 Newsprint, 480400 Kraft paper and paperboard, or 480700 Composite paper and paperboard, among others.