The workshop focuses on both fundamental and applied studies in cellulose, nanocellulose, regenerated cellulose and cellulose derivatives, and will take place on 10–11 November 2026 in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden.

Scientific committee 2026

• Professor Antje Potthast, BOKU University, Austria
• Assoc. professor Björn Sjöstrand, Karlstad University, Sweden
• Professor Gunnar Henriksson, Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden
• Professor Gunnar Westman, Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden
• Assoc. professor Helena Håkansson, Karlstad University, Sweden
• Dr. Jakob Wohlert, Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden
• Professor Juha Fiskari, Mid Sweden University, Sweden
• Professor Leif Jönsson, Umeå University, Sweden
• Assoc. professor Michael Hummel, Aalto University, Finland
• Professor Pedro Fardim, KU Leuven University, Belgium
• Dr. Raquel Bohn Stoltz, Valmet AB, Sweden
• Dr. Sigvart Evjen, Borregaard, Norway
• Professor Thomas Rosenau, BOKU University, Austria

The organisers are Umeå University and Karlstad University. Conference partners are RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Domsjö Fabriker (Aditya Birla) and Bio4Energy.

Support for process issues in chemical recovery

RISE supports pulp mills in the development, troubleshooting and optimisation of chemical recovery in the kraft process. The work covers the entire recovery cycle, with a particular focus on evaporation, causticising and chemical constraints such as scaling, precipitation and disturbances in the Na/S-balance. Our expertise is based on a combination of laboratory studies, advanced chemical analysis and mass balance simulation.

Evaporation – crystallisation and scaling

In evaporation, we address mechanisms of crystallisation and scaling, such as Na–SO₄–CO₃ double salts, and how these are influenced by operating conditions, liquor composition and side streams. We have extensive experience from both laboratory work and industrial‑scale measurements, including mobile equipment for studies under real operating conditions.

Causticising and green liquor – chemical balance and NPEs

In causticising and green liquor handling, we analyse chemical equilibria, solid–liquid separation and how process changes affect chemical yield, quality and long‑term stability. A key aspect of our work is understanding and managing the accumulation of non‑process elements (NPEs), such as potassium and chloride, which can cause significant disturbances by inducing corrosion or operational issues in the recovery boiler.

Mass balances and WinGEMS simulation

To place individual observations in a system‑wide context, we use mass balance simulations in WinGEMS. An established reference mill model enables evaluation of the effects of changes across the entire recovery system. Simulations are combined with experimental data and advanced chemical analysis techniques, such as liquor analysis, crystal phase identification and trace element determination, using RISE’s extensive analytical infrastructure.

By integrating laboratory work, chemical analysis and process simulation, we help pulp mills identify root causes of process issues, evaluate mitigation measures, and make robust decisions to achieve a more stable, efficient and flexible chemical recovery process.

How RISE creates value for pulp mills

• Reduced risk of scaling and operational disturbances
• Improved chemical balance and energy efficiency
• Reliable decision support for capacity increases and process modifications

Tailored for professionals involved in woodchip handling, woodyard operations and pulp production, the summit provides a valuable forum for knowledge-sharing, discussion and collaboration. Through inspiring presentations, practical case studies and interactive dialogue, participants will gain fresh insights into the journey from wood to pulp, while exploring global and regional market conditions, as well as the technologies and innovations shaping the future of the industry.