Date of Award

12-1988

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Department

Paper Science and Engineering

Abstract

Pulp viscosity and zero span tensile tests can be used to predict the ultimate fiber strength of pulp fibers. A project to compare the traditional test with the newer zero span tensile test was completed. In order to compare both tests for precision, bleached softwood kraft pulp was disintegrated and made into handsheets. The handsheets were exposed to ION HCL vapor from a few minutes to a few hours to get a range in fiber strength since the HCl degrades the cellulose. Pulp viscosity and zero span tensile tests were completed on the handsheet paper samples. It was observed that both test methods showed a correlation with predicted decreased fiber strength and time in HCl vapor. In order to determine which test method is superior, variables such as precision, ease of use, quickness, maintenance, and cost were considered. The pulp viscosity test was observed to be more precise than the zero span tensile test when giving an indication of the fiber strength of a handsheet.

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