NANOTECHNOLOGY-DRIVEN, COMPUTER-CONTROLLED, HIGHLY SUSTAINABLE PROCESS FOR MAKING PAPER AND BOARD

摘要

In simple form the stock comprises water, cellulose fiber, pigment or filler, a cationic, charge-neutralizing chemical, and an anionic nanoparticle. The process introduces stock components in proper order, while homogenizing them towards molecular dimensions with low surface tension catalyst and vigorous mixing. The amount of catalyst is optimized for stock dispersion, and formation of an azeotrope in the dryer section. A classical nanostructure is formed. Solids exiting the press increase by as much as 6-7%; water removal energy in the dryer section is reduced in a 40-60% range. Homogeneity is maximized by controlling the standard deviation of a convenient process parameter. The system is controlled at zero zeta potential, at the specific filtration resistance level required for maximum productivity. Chemical usage is reduced by at least an order of magnitude. The process is highly sustainable.