Analysis of wetability properties for kraft paper and corrugated cardboard

Abstract

Corrugated cardboard and kraft paper are widely used in the packaging industry, providing versatility of use and protection for products. The analysis of the wettability properties of these materials is extremely important, as it allows us to understand how they react to humidity. This research aimed to study the wettability properties of corrugated paper (PO) and kraft paper in order to expand knowledge about the quality of packaging produced with them. The study was conducted in the laboratory using corrugated cardboard (PO) with waves of type "A", "B", "C" "E" and kraft paper obtained from coils with and without coating. The wettability tests performed were total immersion, absorption time and drop penetration method. The collected data was interpreted using descriptive and graphical analysis generated by the R program. The research concluded that for the total immersion test, both materials absorbed more water in the vertical position. In the droplet absorption and penetration time tests, cardboards with type “E” waves showed the highest results when compared to other materials, providing a superior barrier for products that will be transported in boxes of this type. Furthermore, the coated Kraft paper also demonstrated good performance for drop penetration testing, confirming the coating's effectiveness as a moisture barrier.