Date of Defense

12-4-2012

Date of Graduation

12-2012

Department

Paper Engineering, Chemical Engineering and Imaging (to 2013)

First Advisor

Jan Pekarovic

Abstract

Layflat characteristics can be influenced by a number of factors that can include the dimensional stability of a base sheet chosen for a particular process. These characteristics can include internal and external factors such as fiber orientation, environmental interaction, the state of the life cycle that the fiber is currently, and the density of the sheet due to bonding. Through the understanding of these influential characteristics of dimensional stability will be helpful in the selection of a proper base sheet for the end product, in the case for poly extrusion.

Through this research the purpose is to measure certain physical properties of seven different base sheets provided by the company, Loparex, to see if there are any correlating trends with customer ranking of runnability. These characteristics are smoothness, porosity, TSAmd fiber orientation, density, stiffness, tensile strength, tear, internal bond strength, ash content, and c-stain testing.

Through the testing of the industry provided samples, the data proved to be mainly inconclusive in trending a correlation of physical properties with industrial rankings of layflat runnability. There were slight trends seen in the density and tensile strength index graphical analysis compared to the hygroexpansivity values. However it seem to contradict the theoretical thoughts of a density relationship with the rankings. This however pushes research in the direction of a focus on the fiber origin and selection. Eucalyptus fiber has been seen in the past to provide the proper layflat characteristics needed in industry however the financial cost is limiting. Therefore secondary fibers should be taken into consideration for the decreased sensitivity to moisture and prior exposure to the refining and drying processes as well as their lower financial burden.

Comments

Powerpoint accompanying.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Restricted

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