Influence of adhesive layer on the stability of kozo paper.

Two types of Japanese papers containing 100 % (JP1) and 50 % (JP2) kozo fibers were treated with different adhesives: methyl-cellulose, rice starch, hydroxypropyl-cellulose and acrylic copolymer. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic (FTIR) analysis confirmed the formation of adhesive layer on the surface of papers. The influence of accelerated ageing procedures of moist heat ageing and UV radiation on sample surfaces was established using FTIR and contact angle measurements. The degradation level of papers was studied measuring the intrinsic viscosity and determining the degree of polymerization. Mechanical properties were determined by tensile tests. The results showed that the polar and dispersive components of the surface energy depend strongly on the surface treatments as well as on conditions of ageing. Analysis of degree of polymerization and tensile strength revealed that treatment with methyl-cellulose, rice starch and hydroxypropyl-cellulose reduced degradation of Japanese papers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]