Difference between virgin paper and recycled paper

There are some differences between virgin paper and recycled paper in terms of raw materials, manufacturing processes, and uses.

Raw materials are different

Primary paper is usually made from virgin wood, and its composition contains more than 80% virgin wood pulp.
Recycled paper is based on waste paper as raw materials, through the shredding, de-colouring pulp and other processes.

Manufacturing process is different

The manufacturing process of virgin paper mainly includes cooking, rinsing and other papermaking processes.
Recycled paper manufacturing process is more complex, need to go through sorting, purification, pulping, copying and other processes.

Use and characteristics

Primary paper paper smooth as satin, warm colour, with a light wood flavor, with good toughness and elasticity.
Recycled paper is mainly used for office, study, etc., does not affect the normal use, and is conducive to the protection of vision health.

Environmental significance

The use of recycled paper is an environmentally friendly initiative that helps to conserve resources and reduce waste.

Colour and surface properties

Virgin paper is usually whiter in colour, with a uniform surface texture and almost invisible impurities.
Recycled paper may be slightly yellowish in colour, and some impurities such as plastic crumbs may be seen on the surface.

Hygiene and safety requirements

Food wrapping paper and other paper with special requirements for health and safety, usually use virgin paper.Most of the newspapers, kraft paper, cardboard, and cardboard boxes we see in our daily lives are made of recycled paper, as well as some low-end toilet paper.Printing paper, food packaging paper, and napkins are all virgin papers because they have hygiene and safety requirements.

Price difference

The price of virgin paper and recycled paper will be different depending on the material.