Some preliminary data on the enzymatic hydrolysis of Pinus pinaster kraft pulp

Enzymes' applications in pulp and paper manufacturing processes and products is gaining global attention. In fact, several applications, including pitch deposits, drainage enhancement, deinking of wastepapers, pulp bleaching enhancement and modification of fibers' characteristics are already used at industrial level. Enzymes are being produced on a commercial scale and are available at a relatively low price. Research to establish the effect of enzymatic treatment continues in an effort to increase knowledge about the action of enzymes. The present paper, an additional contribution to this field, studies the potential utilization of hydrolytic enzymes to enhance the fiber characteristics derived from Pinus pinaster kraft pulp.