The present invention provides a process for preparing polysulfide. More
particularly, the process of the present invention allows one to prepare
the amount of polysulfide needed using clarified white liquor, and to be
used when and where it is needed during the cooking process. The process
comprises reacting alkaline digesting liquor after clarification with a
catalytic amount of a transition metal oxide catalyst, most preferably
manganese dioxide. The reaction is conducted at a temperature of
98.degree. C. or less, and is conducted for a short period of time, e.g.,
less than five minutes, with no oxygen gas or air being introduced with
the catalyst and the main flow of clarified liquor.
