Date of Defense

4-21-2026

Date of Graduation

5-2026

Department

Chemical and Paper Engineering

First Advisor

Mert Atilhan

Second Advisor

James Springstead

Abstract

The maximization of functional additive efficiency in papermaking is a crucial component of improving and maintaining machine runnability, finished product quality, and ultimate mill profitability. Among these chemistries are strength additives, which are functional additives used to improve dry and wet sheet strength in ways that simply cannot be achieved through pulp fibers alone. Traditional means of strength generation come primarily from mechanical refining, which works to increase the potential for fiber-to-fiber bonding through fibrillation. Despite its positive impact on strength generation, mechanical refining is linked to fines generation and significant losses in drainage potential, harming sheet formation and increasing energy demands downstream. To alleviate this, functional chemistries aimed at aiding strength generation are often added to stock approach systems and the wet end of the paper machine. This project will work to challenge the industry standard regarding current strength additive strategies by exploring alternative configurations of strength additive applications, pushing the boundaries of modern papermaking, and delivering innovative solutions for better, faster, and cheaper means of manufacturing paper.

Comments

Co-authored with:

Aimee Lambert

Katy Zaborowski

Connor Johnson

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Restricted

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