Surface Treatment of Laboratory-made Papers: Impact on Water Absorption and Structural Characteristics

Abstract

This study investigated how coatings with sodium polyacrylate (SP), mixed corn starch (MS), and their combination (SPMS) affect the properties of lab-made cellulose papers. Coatings were applied at various dry matter concentrations (5 to 20% w/w). Results showed that SP coatings significantly increased water retention and hydrophilicity, with higher concentrations improving absorption. Conversely, MS coatings reduced water retention. Gloss values slightly increased with coating concentration but were overall lower than the uncoated paper. Structural properties like density and thickness were largely unchanged, confirming the coating's direct impact on grammage and water absorption. This preliminary laboratory study provides a foundational framework for optimizing coating color formulations and their application to paper surfaces, offering insights for developing next-generation paper products for various industrial and commercial applications.