Preparation of the Microfibrillated Cellulose and its Application in the Food Packaging Paper

Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) was prepared from the bleached kraft hardwood pulp using TEMPO/NaClO/NaBr oxidation system and high pressure homogenization. By changing dosages of the TEMPO, NaClO and NaBr, the pressure and times of homogenization, pretreatment and homogenization process were optimized. Experimental investigation indicated that for making MFC of high quality, 0.25%TEMPO, 2.5%NaBr, 60%NaClO (based on oven dry pulp), 20 times of homogenization, pressure of 60MPa in the process of treatment were required. At last, the mechanical and barrier properties were tested after the base paper was coated by homemade MFC. The study suggested that mechanical properties (especially 5 times increase of the folding strength) increased substantially and air permeability decreased by 100times.