Characterization of the Interface Between Coating and Fibrous Layers of Paper

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Porous Media Research
• Surface Engineering

Background:

• Coated paper functions as a multi-layer porous medium.
• Characterizing the interface between coating and fibrous layers is crucial for accurate modeling.
• Understanding paper structure impacts ink interaction and printability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the microstructural interface between the coating and fibrous layers of coated paper.
• To quantify coating layer thickness variability.
• To inform the development of multi-scale modeling approaches for coated paper.

Main Methods:

• Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB-SEM) was used to image cross-sections of coated paper.
• Image analysis techniques were applied to characterize the coating layer and its transition zone.
• Microstructural features were quantitatively assessed.

Main Results:

• Coating layer thickness exhibits significant variability across the paper surface.
• A substantial portion of the coating layer was found to be below the critical thickness for ink barrier properties.
• Detailed structural insights into the coating-fiber interface were obtained.

Conclusions:

• The observed structural heterogeneity necessitates advanced modeling strategies.
• A multi-scale modeling approach is recommended for accurately simulating coated paper behavior.
• Findings provide a basis for optimizing paper coating formulations and processes.