Using CO₂ as Feedstock for Green Pulping Chemistry

Meet Kiran Reddy Baddigam, a research scientist in Liji Sobhana’s team at VTT is breaking new ground in 𝘀𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗽𝘂𝗹𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 as part of the Emission-Free Pulping Program. His research tackles a major challenge: traditional wood pulping methods rely on harsh, sulfur-based chemicals that cause toxic emissions, environmental harm, and health risks for workers.

Baddigam's approach uses 𝗖𝗢𝟮 𝗲𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿, 𝘄𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗵 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝘀 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗯𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗱—a mild, eco-friendly alternative to conventional pulping chemicals. This method not only reduces emissions but also enhances the impregnation of chemicals into wood chips, 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝘂𝗹𝗽 𝘆𝗶𝗲𝗹𝗱 and 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘇𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲. By repurposing CO₂, he turns a greenhouse gas into a valuable resource, pushing the boundaries of green chemistry and sustainable industrial processes.

This research is an exciting step toward emission-free, efficient wood pulping that supports both environmental goals and industrial scalability. Stay tuned for more updates from the Emission Free Pulping program 🌱