The 300,000-metric-ton functional paper-based and auxiliary materials construction project in Tai'an, Shandong, has reached a significant milestone, beginning trial production. The core paper machine has been commissioned and is producing paper that meets key technical specifications.

Located in the economic development zone in Dongping, the project has a total investment of 2.4 billion yuan ($354 million). Developed in collaboration with Academician Xie Yi's team from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), it aims to reduce reliance on foreign technology in spacer materials for LCD panels, a critical gap in the domestic industry.

The project is recognized as a key industrial transformation initiative in Shandong province and serves as a core platform for commercializing USTC's scientific achievements.

The team developed China's first LCD spacer paper with independent intellectual property rights, addressing a gap in the domestic market. Through careful equipment calibration and parameter optimization, the project team ensured a smooth and successful startup of the paper machine.

This new breakthrough addresses a major bottleneck in China's high-end specialty paper sector. It is expected to advance Tai'an's advanced materials industry, create competitive advantages, and support the country's strategic autonomy in specialty paper production. The company is now focusing on optimizing processes to reach full production capacity as soon as possible.

The 300,000-ton functional paper project in Tai'an starts trial production, marking a major advancement in China's high-end specialty paper sector. [Photo/Shandian News]