Introduction to Specialty Paper

Specialty paper is made by using a papermaking machine to produce paper with special functions from different fibers. For instance, synthetic fibers, synthetic pulp or mixed wood pulp are used alone, and then modified or processed with different materials to endow the paper with various functions and uses, such as: Paper materials used for daily life, building materials, electrical products, industrial filters, mechanical industry, agriculture, information, optics, culture and art, advanced biochemical technology, etc., as long as they are used for special purposes, are all collectively referred to as specialty paper.

Specialty paper is a general term for paper with special uses and small production volumes, also known as special-purpose paper or art paper, covering 12 major fields including culture, packaging, construction, and medical care. Its raw materials include plant fibers, synthetic fibers and inorganic fibers. Through papermaking processes and coating treatments, it is endowed with properties such as water resistance, fire resistance and antibacterial properties. For instance, carbonless copy paper achieves the copy function by using microcapsule technology, and nano-waterproof paper enhances its hydrophobicity by adding nanomaterials. This category originated from the carbonless copy paper developed in the United States in the 1940s. Since 2010, the industrial scale in China has gradually expanded. In 2022, the output reached 4.12 million tons, forming regional industrial clusters such as Quzhou and Zhutai Town. The production technology involves processes such as microcapsule structure, security thread anti-counterfeiting and fiber reinforcement. The products include anti-rust paper, aramid paper, paper-based brake pads, etc., which are applied in the fields of financial anti-counterfeiting, aerospace components and environmental protection building materials. The industry is facing challenges such as rising wood pulp prices and reliance on imported technologies, and is transforming towards green and low-carbon development.