Crystallization Phenomena (BL Evaporation)

IPST has been a global leader in kraft process chemical recovery research and development since the 1970s. A recent focus of our work has been a cutting-edge investigation of sodium salt crystallization during black liquor evaporation. We have been able to relate observed crystallization phenomena to the costly problem of evaporator fouling and plugging. Our activity in this field now ranges from fundamental studies of crystal structure to mill testing of fouling reduction concepts. Our results also have applications in a range of other industrial processes from nuclear waste remediation to aluminum refining. The long term goal of our team is to help the pulp and paper industry reduce oil and gas use 1) by maximizing steam and power generation from black liquor - a biomass fuel byproduct of the wood pulping process, and 2) by reducing steam consumption in black liquor evaporators. Our work also helps mills remain profitable by reducing the manufacturing costs associated with lost production for equipment cleaning. Our strengths in sensors and controls, evaporator fouling, and liquor cycle optimization also supports the deployment of a new generation of technology including integrated forest biorefinery concepts and black liquor gasification.