Wood side-streams

After the hydrothermal treatment of birch logs, the logs are debarked, resulting in bark residue. A portion of the birch bark is then sent to the Betulin Lab, where it is further processed and refined for subsequent use and processing. The two main directions of Betulin Lab’s activities are the production of birch bark extract substances, also known as biologically active compounds – triterpenes, based on betulin, betulinic acid, and lupeol. Additionally, research is conducted to explore new application potentials, and birch bark is prepared for export to pharmaceutical companies in the European Union.

The triterpene compounds present in birch bark extract are biologically active, natural compounds with antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as cell viability-enhancing qualities. These properties of the compounds are highly valued and applied in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries. Its potential in other sectors is still under exploration.

By-products unsuitable for betulin, fibreboard and chipboard production or for pulp and paper manufacturing are used for obtaining thermal energy necessary to sustain production processes in the mills.  

In the Latvijas Finieris Group’s mills, Troja and Verems, sawdust is used in the production of chipboard briquettes, which are sold in our retail stores. Some of the sawdust is further sold to heating pellet manufacturers or exported.