Parchment paper : Usages and characteristics

Parchment paper is a cellulose-based paper with special properties that make it non-stick, heat-resistant, and grease-resistant. 

What it is:

• Paper that's been treated with sulfuric acid and coated with silicone
• The acid treatment creates a dense, stable paper structure
• The silicone coating provides non-stick properties

Key properties:

• Heat resistant (typically up to 420-450°F/215-230°C)
• Non-stick surface on both sides
• Moisture and grease resistant
• Won't tear easily when wet
• Food-safe and doesn't transfer flavors
• Can be reused several times

Types:

• Bleached (white colored)
• Unbleached (brown colored)
• Quilon-treated (has a chemical coating instead of silicone)

Quilon-treated refers to paper or materials treated with a chromium-based chemical coating that makes them water and grease resistant. It's an alternative to silicone coating, Quilon treatment helps paper resist moisture and oils.

Common uses:

• Baking (cookies, cakes, bread)
• Lining pans
• Wrapping food
• Steaming food in packets
• Separating layers of frozen foods
• Rolling dough

Different from:

• Wax paper (can't withstand high heat)
• Butcher paper (not non-stick)
• Aluminum foil (metallic, conducts heat)

Manufacturing process:

• Paper is made from wood pulp treated with acid bath to strengthen fibers
• Coated with silicone
• Cured to create non-stick surface
• Cut and packaged

Wood pulp is a fibrous material made by breaking down wood into its individual fibers through mechanical or chemical processes. 

It's the main raw material used to make paper and some textile products.