Largely derived from lignocellulose, paper is created from a pulp dissolved into a slurry that is drained and dried into sheets. Different types of paper are defined by constituent fiber, paper pulp, sizing, coating, paper size, paper density and grammage.
Paper, matted or felted sheet, usually of cellulose fibers, formed on a wire screen from water suspension. Although wood has become the major source of fiber for papermaking, rag fibers are used for paper of maximum strength, durability, and permanence. Learn more about paper, including its history.
Although bark paper emerged during the Han dynasty, the predominant material used for paper was hemp until the Tang dynasty when rattan and mulberry bark paper gradually prevailed.
Paper is the basic material used for written communication and the dissemination of information. In addition, paper and paperboard provide materials for hundreds of other uses, such as wrapping, packaging, toweling, insulating, and photography.