Analytical measurement of microstickies on fibers by model surfaces

Abstract A silicon wafer coated with cellulose was prepared to measure the deposition of stickies on fibers and polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) suspension is prepared as the model compound. In addition, two methods, shear force and aeration, were used to induce the agglomeration and deposition of microstickies. The model surface was characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and water contact angle. The results from new methods were also compared with old methods of High-density polyethylene (HDPE) deposition and INGEDE (International Association of the Deinking Industry) Method 4. Although these methods have been used to predict the deposition of stickies onto the drying felt or other equipment, the deposition of stickies onto fibers can differ significantly due to the hydrophilic nature of the fibers. This is the first measurement method that could help to predict the deposition of stickies onto paper products, which has been shown to cause detrimental effects.