- The first step in creating recycled paper is the collection and sorting phase. As paper recycling is encouraged in most towns, it is not uncommon for municipal governments to offer used-paper pick up in coordination with trash removal. However, when pick up isn't available, paper may be dropped off at recycling centers. Paper is then sorted into pallets based on its thickness and stock, and shipped in bulk to paper mills for pulping and de-inking.
- Once the paper reaches the paper plant, it is dumped into a large heated container filled with non-acidic chemicals and water. This container, referred to as a pulper, shreds the sheets of paper and distills it down to its basic fibers. The fibers, mixed with the water and chemicals, turns into a thick and pasty substance called pulp. Often, the pulp batches will undergo the process of de-inking, where a combination of rinsing and air bubble application work to remove ink and adhesive from the fibers. If the paper being made will only be partially recycled, then fresh tree fibers will now be added into the pulp mixture. Once the pulping process is complete, the pulp is poured onto wire screens that remove the excess moisture and remove any lingering contaminants.
- While the pulp is still spread on the screen, it is pushed through several phases of felt rollers that squeeze the remaining water out and also press the pulp fibers together, causing them to bond. If white copy paper is being made, a bleach will now be applied to the pulp. After the felt rollers, the pulp sheet is pushed through heater rollers to dry it. If glossy photo paper or any other kind of finished paper is being made, the finish will be applied after the heat press. The newly created trays of paper will then be cut by a machine into certain uniform dimensions. These sheets are arranged into boxes and shipped to customers as recycled paper.
