Interaction of cationic modified poly vinyl alcohol with high yield pulp

Abstract

The influence of polymer characteristics on paper properties has not been well understood. In this work, we aimed at analyzing the performance of various cationic-modified poly vinyl alcohols (CPVA), as dry strength additives, on the properties of high-yield pulp (HYP). Various dosages of CPVA having different molecular weights (MW) and charge densities were applied on HYPs, and the resulting paper properties were evaluated. Also, an atomic force microscope (AFM) was employed to evaluate the attraction/repulsion force developed between modified fibers and AFM probes. Our results showed that the hydrophilicity and contact area of fibers were increased via CPVA application. High MW CPVA with the charge density of 0.7 meq/g was the most effective one in improving the properties of the fiber networks made from HYPs. The changes in the fiber morphology and chemistry played roles in improving the properties of fiber networks. The introduction of similar charges on HYPs via applying various dosages of different CPVAs confirmed that the changes in the fiber chemistry were not the only dominant factor in improving the properties. Additionally, the significance of polymer bridging (polymer characteristics) on the network properties was hindered due to the presence of fines in the HYP.