Development of Shock-Absorbing Packaging Paper Using Bulking Agent

This study presents the development of a high shock-absorbing packaging paper using a new bulking agent. A capsule foaming agent was selected as the new bulking agent, and its particle size and zeta potential were measured. Handsheets containing the bulking agent were made using Unbl Kraft Pulp (UKP) and Korea Old Corrugated Container (KOCC), and the bulk and strength of the sheets were analyzed. The shock-absorbing property of the handsheets was measured using a drop test with an iron ball.BRThe capsule foaming agent had a negative zeta potential, and a larger particle size than other fillers used in the papermaking process. When the fiber properties of UKP and KOCC were compared, the fiber length and width of UKP were greater than those of KOCC, but the fines content of UKP was less than that of KOCC. The bulk of the handsheets increased as the amount of bulking agent added increased, and the bulk of KOCC handsheets was greater than that of UKP handsheets. However, compared to KOCC handsheets, UKP handsheets displayed greater strength. Additionally, the shock absorbing property of the handsheets increased as the bulk of the handsheets increased after observing the red density of prescale film obtained using the drop test. Thus, the capsule foaming agent enhanced the bulk and shock-absorbing properties of packaging paper.