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Updated: May 25, 2026

Methods for Facilitating Microbial Growth on Pulp Mill Waste Streams and Characterization of the Biodegradation Potential of Cultured Microbes
Published on: December 12, 2013
Modification of old corrugated container pulp with laccase and laccase-mediator system
Yangmei Chen1, Jinquan Wan, Yongwen Ma
1College of Environmental Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, PR China.
Abstract:
Modification of the physical properties of old corrugated container (OCC) pulp with laccase or a laccase-mediator (ABTS, HBT, VA) system was investigated under select enzymatic concentrations and reaction times. The optimal conditions for laccase treatment shown to be using a laccase dose of 160U/g o.d. pulp, a treatment time of 20h at 25°C, pH 7 with a pulp consistency of 5%. Results showed that the Lac-HBT treated OCC pulp gave the best strength properties, improving tensile strength by 15.7%. The increase in the carboxyl group content of OCC laccase or Lac-HBT treated pulp led to the increase in the swelling ability and bonding between fibers. Microscope images showed the fiber surface became rougher and more collapsible after Lac-HBT treatment. FT-IR data showed that new carboxylic acid groups were formed during Lac-HBT treatment.

