Abstract: A method for increasing the separation of solids from an aqueous slurry containing such solids is disclosed. The separation process is particularly useful in the separation of the solid components of a papermill furnish from water in the manufacture of paper. The method comprises the steps of adding to a paper mill slurry from about 0.003 to about 1.0% by weight based on total solids in the slurry of a phenolic enhancer and a nonionic (meth)acrylamide homopolymer methacrylamide, or anionic or cationic flocculant is added to the slurry in an amount of from about 0.003 to about 0.5% by weight based on total solids in the slurry. Addition order is non-critical. The flocculation of solid components of the paper mill slurry is increased leading to improved retention of filler and fiber on the sheet and increased drainage of water from the cellulosic sheet produced. The method is also applicable to the treatment of waste waters, mineral tailings, oily waste waters, municipal and industrial wastes, and the like.

Abstract: Urea is used to pacify "stickies" in the manufacture of paper products, particularly coated boxboard.