EFB Nano Fibrous Cells for Paper Smoothing and Improved Printability

Abstract:

nanofibrillation of the oil palm empty fruit bunches, EFB, by synergizing the alkaline peroxide chemicals and a subsequent refining process was found to liberate useful fibrous mass. Of these, the nanofiber web materials were found to render smoothing effect by covering the trough between bound fibers and thus, hiding the true morphology of fibers on the paper surface. Apart from smoothing, which is one of the important paper properties requiring expensive furnishing, the thin nanofiber webs (tn-webs) also held the paper structure firmly by plunging of the nanofibers into the gaps between the micro-fibers. This is mainly due to their dimensional (10 nm < Diameter < 100 nm) compatibility. The smorgasbord shapes of the liberated tn-webs have a relatively lighter structures, found in the range of 2400-121500 μm² areas, could be abundantly produced by adjustment of refiner blade type with a specific alkaline peroxide chemical level. The maximal level of paper smoothness was measured by the laser toner spread (fusion or otherwise). Analysis reveals more extensive toner fusion on Waldron-4 sample, suggesting surface uniformity anfd better leveling of fibers on paper surface. It turns out that, this corresponds to the fibers detected with more evidence of delamination and thus, more count of nanofiber web. Not only is this a proof of correlation of nanofiber web intensity with paper smoothness but also a possible promise for an alternative measure for paper printability enhancement.

• Periodical: Advanced Materials Research (Volume 832)
• Pages: 537-542
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMR.832.537
• Online since: November 2013
• Authors: Arniza Ghazali, Yunita Megasari Dermawan, Mohd Ridzuan Hafiz Mohd Zukeri, Rushdan Ibrahim, Salmi Ghazali
• Keywords: EFB, Nanocells, Nanofibrils, Printability, Smoothness

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