The pulping process is a method used to convert raw materials, such as wood or recycled paper, into pulp, which is the primary ingredient for making paper. This process typically involves breaking down the fibrous material through mechanical or chemical means. Mechanical pulping uses physical force to separate fibers, while chemical pulping employs chemicals to dissolve lignin, the substance that binds fibers together. Once the fibers are separated, they are washed and refined to improve their quality. The resulting pulp can then be bleached to achieve the desired brightness before being formed into sheets and dried. This process is essential for producing various types of paper products, including those made from recycled paper and wood pulp.