What is Sulfite Paper?
Sometimes referred to as sulphite paper, this often elegant and useful type of paper has a number of uses. Here is some basic information about the creation of sulfite paper, as well as how the finished product is used in several different ways.
Sulfite paper begins its life through the creation of what is known as sulfite pulp. The process for creating sulfite pulp is fairly easy. Wood pulp is treated with the use of peroxide or hypochlorite and ran through an operation that yields a thick paper product that has lost the natural hue of the wood pulp and began to take on a lighter shade. Repeated applications of the chemical compounds will result in an even lighter shade, until the end product has taken on a brilliant white appearance. From there, the sulfite paper can be further processed to any thickness that is desires, depending on how the end product is to be used.
One of the most common uses for sulfite paper is with the development of photographs. The sturdy nature provided by the sulfite processing ensures that the paper will allow for an excellent reproduction of the image on the paper. Because the paper can be produced in just about any size, it is possible to use the compound for any size image that is needed. Along with the clarity that is provided by the sulfite paper, the color quality will also be excellent. This is a great feature for not only color photographs, but also for the production of static billboards, which often rely on color to catch the attention of persons driving by.
Another use of sulfite paper is in the production of business related paper products, such as portfolios, folders, sales brochure covers, and promotional items where appearance is extremely important. When laminated, sulfite paper provides a brilliant background for logos, graphics and even text that will do a lot to enhance the professional appearance of the company. Because the sulfite paper is available in several weights, the product is ideal for any printed matter that is expected to hold up to frequent handling over an extended period of time.
Sulfite paper is also the paper of choice for many writers, who prefer to turn in their manuscripts on high quality brilliant sheets. Manuscript copies that are printed on sulfite paper will also resist yellowing over the years, and also not become brittle with age as quickly.
All in all, sulfite paper has a number of valuable uses in several different industries. Essentially, if there is a desire or need to prepare any sort of printed or graphic documents that need to be strong, vibrant and will resist wear and tear for a number of years, sulfite paper is the ideal choice.
Written by Malcolm Tatum
