Three dimensional modelling of fibrous materials and experimental validation

Abstract

AbstractThis article presents a computational model and some simulation results for fibrous materials such as paper. To obtain a better understanding of the influence of fibre properties on the paper structure a novel paper model was developed. This is a physically based model where paper is formed by the sequential deposition of individual fibres. The model intends to capture key papermaking fibre properties like morphology, flexibility, and collapse and process operations such as fibre deposition, network forming or densification. This model is a step forward in transverse paper modelling. In fact, it is a three dimensional model that includes the fibre microstructure, that is, lumen and fibre wall thickness, with a resolution up to 0.05 μm. To test the model validity and predictive capability, laboratory hand sheets were used to study the network formation of an office paper, mainly produced from Eucalyptus globulus bleached Kraft pulp. This paper was characterized via an experimental design that included factors such as raw material and beating degree. The resulting porous structure was characterized and the mechanical performance was assessed. The computational simulation was used to investigate the relative influence of fibre properties such as fibre flexibility, dimensions and collapsibility. The developed multiscale model gave realistic predictions and enabled us to link fibre microstructure and paper properties.