Evaluation of the refining effects on the properties of transparent paper produced from bagasse fiber

Abstract

This study was conducted with the aim of producing laboratory samples of transparent paper using overbeating method. Hence, bagasse bleached soda pulp was subjected to post-bleaching sequence of DED to remove residual chromophores. Then this pulp was refined in a PFI mill to reach different levels of 55, 130, 200, and 260 mL,CSF (Canadian standard freeness) freeness. Then handsheets were made according to TAPPI standard T 205 om– 8. Results indicated that refining has significant effect on optical properties especially transparency so that the maximum value was observed using pulp with the minimum freeness, i.e. 55 ml. The variations of transparency due to refining were also further explained by measuring scattering coefficient, opacity and brightness of the specimens. In addition, mercury porosimetry and analyzing the pictures of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) demonstrated the extensive variations of pore structure in paper during refining which impose great influence on developing transparency.

Keywords

• TRANSPARENCY
• Refining
• Mercury porosimetry
• Bagasse fiber