In cellulose pulp manufacturing, the presence of metallic ions derived from the water or from the wood itself, lowers the effectiveness of the bleaching agents (peroxide or hydrosulphites) as these catalyse the break down decomposition and unable the pulp to reach the desired shine and whiteness. In the TCF (Total Chlorine Free) process for cellulose pulp, it is essential to eliminate all the metal impurities (principally manganesium and iron) which catalyse the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. To do so, DABEERSEN 503 (sodium DTPA salt) or DABEERSEN Fe1 are used as chelating agent.
Iron causes unwanted paper dyeing, reduces rigidity and decomposes the oxidant used for bleaching. Copper or manganesium traces are harmful to paper destined to food packaging as they accelerate food rancidification. The DABEERSEN sequestering agents deactivate and eliminate the metallic traces which cause all of these problems.