Abstract: A press section of a paper machine includes a pick-up roll, a take-off felt looping about at least the pick-up roll and a connected first pressing element, and a counter element assigned to the first pressing element. The counter element and the first pressing element define a first press unit. A first pressing felt loops about at least the counter element of the first press unit and a second pressing element with a smooth surface. The second pressing element forms a second press unit with the first pressing element. The press section also includes a smooth press belt partially looping around a portion of the second pressing element, a third pressing element looped about by the smooth press belt, and a third counter element assigned to the third pressing element. The third counter element and the third pressing element form a third press unit. A third pressing felt loops about at least the third counter element.

Abstract: A method of treating a water-swellable clay after the clay has been mined and dried to improve its properties when in contact with salt-contaminated water. After the common initial drying of the clay to a moisture content of 12% by weight or less, the clay is rewetted to a moisture content of more than 12% by weight, preferably at least about 15% or more, based on the dry weight of the clay, then redried to a moisture content of 12% by weight or less, based on the dry weight of the clay.

Abstract: An ion exchange resin for extracting metal ions from a liquid waste stream. An ion exchange resin is prepared by copolymerizing a vinylidene disphosphonic acid with styrene, acrylonitrile and divinylbenzene.