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Interactions between cellulose nanofibers and retention systems in flocculation of recycled fibers

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Abstract

Although the positive effect that cellulose nanofibers (CNF) can have on paper strength is known, their effect on flocculation during papermaking is not well understood, and most relevant studies have been carried out in presence of only cationic starch. Flocculation is the key to ensuring retention of fibers, fines, and fillers, and furthermore floc properties have a great influence on paper quality. The aim of this research is to study the interactions between CNF and flocculants by assessing the effect of two types of CNF, from eucalyptus and corn, on the flocculation process induced by three different retention systems [a dual system, polyvinylamine (PVA), and cationic starch as reference]. The results showed that CNF interacted with the flocculants in different ways, affecting flocculation efficiency and floc properties. In general, addition of CNF increased floc stability and minimized overdosing effects. Moreover, presence of CNF increased floc size for given PVA dose; therefore, CNF addition could contribute to improve the wet end in the paper machine if combined with the optimal flocculant and dose.

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Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank the Economy and Competitiveness Ministry of Spain for support of this project with reference CTQ2012-36868-C02-01.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Chemical Engineering, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda Complutense s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain

    Noemi Merayo, Ana Balea, Elena de la Fuente, Ángeles Blanco & Carlos Negro

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  1. Noemi Merayo
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  2. Ana Balea
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  3. Elena de la Fuente
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  4. Ángeles Blanco
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  5. Carlos Negro
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Correspondence to Noemi Merayo.

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Merayo, N., Balea, A., de la Fuente, E. et al. Interactions between cellulose nanofibers and retention systems in flocculation of recycled fibers. Cellulose 24, 677–692 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10570-016-1138-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10570-016-1138-0

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