Utilising every part of every tree - that is the strategy of the Swedish forest industry group Södra. This includes kraft lignin, that today is used for generating energy at Södra´s plants. As a refining process, Södra is investing in making more use of this raw material as a product. Kraft lignin can be used in numerous applications: Hard carbon for batteries, basic material for the chemical industry or binder are just a few examples. 

To unlock lignin's full market potential, granulation is essential for producing a dust-free, easy-to-handle product. The Hosokawa Micron Group has developed an advanced process for the compaction and dry granulation of lignin, as well as solutions for handling, storage, and packaging. This process convinced Södra to trust the Hosokawa Micron Group with the turn-key plant for kraft lignin granulation.

"In competition with other technologies, Hosokawa Alpine and Hosokawa Solids stood out as an obvious supplier. We value their proven expertise and innovative technologies, which enable us to produce kraft lignin granules. Getting their technology in place in Mönsterås is an important step to get our product tailored to market requirements.", says Karin Dernegård, Mill Manager at Södra Cell Mönsterås.

More about the compaction and grinding of lignin

In addition, shared values form the basis for cooperation. “Sustainable materials and the efficient processing of these is a key factor for the future and in strong alignment with our corporate values” says Alexander Schmid, Vice President Sales Powder at Hosokawa Alpine. “That's why we are delighted to support Södra in contributing to the world’s largest kraft lignin production system with our innovative technologies.” The go-ahead for the new lignin granulation plant was given in December 2024 and commissioning is expected in July 2027.