EFB Nano Fibrous Cells for Paper Smoothing and Improved Printability

Abstract

nanofibrillation of the oil palm empty fruit bunches, EFB, by synergizing the alkaline peroxide chemicals and a subsequent refining process was found to liberate useful fibrous mass. Of these, the nanofiber web materials were found to render smoothing effect by covering the trough between bound fibers and thus, hiding the true morphology of fibers on the paper surface. Apart from smoothing, which is one of the important paper properties requiring expensive furnishing, the thin nanofiber webs (tn-webs) also held the paper structure firmly by plunging of the nanofibers into the gaps between the micro-fibers. This is mainly due to their dimensional (10 nm < Diameter < 100 nm) compatibility. The smorgasbord shapes of the liberated tn-webs have a relatively lighter structures, found in the range of 2400-121500 μm2 areas, could be abundantly produced by adjustment of refiner blade type with a specific alkaline peroxide chemical level. The maximal level of paper smoothness was measured by the laser toner spread (fusion or otherwise). Analysis reveals more extensive toner fusion on Waldron-4 sample, suggesting surface uniformity anfd better leveling of fibers on paper surface. It turns out that, this corresponds to the fibers detected with more evidence of delamination and thus, more count of nanofiber web. Not only is this a proof of correlation of nanofiber web intensity with paper smoothness but also a possible promise for an alternative measure for paper printability enhancement.

Nano cells from fruit bunch residue: Nestling nanotechnology within the circular oil palm milling residue management

“…Incorporating the obtained nano cells (TRX-cells Ⓡ or TRX) in fibre suspension in paper-making improved printability by 84% [ 90 ] while applying 0.0004% (w/v) nano cells as an external coat improved the inkjet printability of commercial 80 gsm paper by 80%. The cells' unique nature offered precision inkjet printability by several distinctive mechanisms like paper pore-masking and bridging of inter-fibre gaps.…”

The effect of nanocrystalline cellulose and TEMPO-oxidized nanocellulose on the compatibility of polypropylene/cyclic natural rubber blends

“…TEMPO-oxidized nanocelluloses has been applied as additive for paper, food and membranes. 30,31 As an individualized fiber which is supported with high ratio of its dimension, the TEMPO-oxidized nanocellulose can improve the compatibility of polymer blend as a reinforcement agent. [32][33][34][35] The comparative effect of nanocrystalline cellulose and TEMPO-oxidized nanofiber as additives or nanofillers in the nanocomposite has yet to be explored, especially in the blend of polypropylene and cyclic natural rubber (PP/CNR).…”

“…TEMPO-oxidized nanocelluloses has been applied as additive for paper, food and membranes. 30,31 As an individualized fiber which is supported with high ratio of its dimension, the TEMPO-oxidized nanocellulose can improve the compatibility of polymer blend as a reinforcement agent. 32–35…”

Thermal and Morphology Properties of Cellulose Nanofiber from TEMPO-oxidized Lower part of Empty Fruit Bunches (LEFB)

“…CNF has wide areas of application due to its interesting properties, such as low weight, high aspect ratio, high reinforcing potential, and large surface area [2,3]. CNF can also be applied in a variety of industrial areas or applications, such as nanofiller for polymeric nanocomposite, packaging and food packaging, paper printing, antibacterial paper, and conductive paper [3][4][5][6][7].…”