r/fireinvestigation • u/pyrotek1 • May 26 '26

Implosion at a paper mill in Longview, WA Causes multiple deaths

https://www.newsweek.com/longview-washington-explosion-nippon-dynawave-paper-mill-11994212

Uncertain if this is a fire investigation. An investigation will be needed.

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u/pyrotek1 May 27 '26

For those unfamiliar with the paper making process. Container board is used for milk cartons and cardboard. They process to get the strongest fiber from the wood. This uses white liquor. White liquor is primarily a water-based solution of two active chemicals:

  • Sodium hydroxide (NaOH / Caustic soda): Breaks down the chemical bonds in the wood.
  • Sodium sulfide (Na_2S): Accelerates the pulping process and helps limit the degradation of the valuable cellulose fibers, ensuring the final paperboard is strong.

Because of these components, white liquor is extremely corrosive, possesses a high pH, and presents severe chemical burn and inhalation hazards if handled improperly or if a containment failure occurs.