1979 saw the first investment in Hydrocarb M, a calcite marble-based pigment developed by Omya for use as filler and coating in the paper industry. The use of Hydrocarb M required the paper mills to change their production from acid to neutral. The change also helped save a considerable amount of electricity in paper production.
From 1985 the paper industry gradually converted to neutral processing, and Hydrocarb M became “state of the art”. The more Hydrocarb M in the paper, the better, cheaper and more environmentally friendly the paper becomes.
The Hydrocarb M products became a success, and made Hustadmarmor the main supplier of calcite marble-based pigment to the paper industry in Northern Europe. With its “always in time” approach and best quality, Hustadmarmor developed into the largest calcite marble-based pigment plant in the world.
Hydrocarb M products are mainly sold to the paper industry, but also for the manufacture of paint, plastic, medicinal products etc. 100% of the production is exported.
The use of Hydrocarb M in paper increases quality and reduces the paper mills’ need for wood fibre, electricity and chemicals.
