Universities around the world are researching new ways to de-ink paper for recycling. Traditional de-inking processes involve large quantities of chemicals which are expensive and unfriendly to the environment.

Science Daily reported on a research project conducted by Universiti Malaysia Sarawak and Sarawak Forestry Corporation that described enzymatic de-inking of mixed office paper. It turns out that the most difficult raw material for de-inking is mixed office wastepaper - logical since many different printing processes may be used.

The results of the comparison of enzymatic de-inking with traditional chemical-based de-inking:

• Ink detachment from the paper fiber was facilitated by the enzymatic modification of the fiber surfaces.
• The process proved to be more effective for the removal of larger ink particles.
• Properties such as brightness, air permeability, tensile, and tear were enhanced in the handsheets preparation of the recycled mixed office paper.