Date of Award

11-1972

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Department

Paper Science and Engineering

Abstract

The objective of this thesis was the determination of the effect of temperature and relative humidity on the strength properties of corrugated board.

A testing laboratory was set up in a controlled humidity room. Both temperatures and humidities were varied to form testing levels. The temperatures ranged from 32°F to 92°F. The humidity varied from 25% to 75%. Extreme conditions in either direction were not used so as to avoid damage to the room and testing equipment. Three tests were performed on the exposed board. They were H & D flat crush test, G.E. puncture test, and the mullen test. All were performed in accordance with TAPPI and Astm Standards.

Results of the tests showed temperature and humidity to both have a definite effect on the strength properties of corrugated board. For example the mullen and G.E. puncture showed an increase in strength at a lower temperature with a 50% humidity. Yet at 75% humidity the strength is lost. The board at this point has reached or passed its saturation point causing the fibers to pull out of the lattice rather than stretch. The test results also proved temperature and relative humidity and also had an effect on strength due to what the board is made up of. A certain set of conditions could cause the liner board to add to the strength in a mullen test, while the corrugated medium of the board, under the same conditions, could completely destroy the crush strength.

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