MFC in Coated Paper Comparisons

MFC Grinder Case Study: MFC in Coated Paper – MFC in the Base Furnish

Improving Coating Hold-out and Reducing Porosity

Background

  • 80 g/m² woodfree paper prepared on pilot paper machine
  • Furnish: 70% eucalyptus / 30% pine (450 CSF)
  • 20% GCC filler
  • Trial compared 0% and 2% MFC addition
  • Coated using GCC / Kaolin formulation with coat weights between 6–14 g/m²
  • Supercalendered finish

Trial Objectives

  • Reduce base sheet porosity
  • Improve coating hold-out
  • Reduce coating penetration into the sheet structure
  • Evaluate coat weight reduction potential

Trial Results

MFC in Coated Paper Comparisons
Left image: 10 g/m2 coating. No MFC in base. Right image: 10 g/m2 coating. 2% MFC in base.

Trial Outcomes

  • 2% MFC addition reduced porosity by over 40%
  • 4% MFC addition reduced porosity by over 60%
  • Improved coating hold-out due to smoother and more closed sheet structure
  • Reduced coating penetration into the base sheet
  • For every 1% MFC added, coat weight could be reduced by approximately 10–15% while maintaining properties
  • Maintaining coat weight while adding MFC resulted in further coated paper property improvements

Business Impact

  • Reduced coating consumption and coating costs
  • Improved coated paper efficiency
  • Potential for lower raw material usage while maintaining performance
  • Enhanced surface quality and coating response

Key Takeaway

Adding MFC to the base furnish significantly reduces sheet porosity and improves coating hold-out, enabling lower coat weights while maintaining coated paper performance.

MFC production equipment recommendation: G250 Grinder

FiberLean G250 MFC Grinder for Industrial Scale Microfibrillated Cellulose Production
FiberLean G250 MFC Grinder for Industrial Scale Microfibrillated Cellulose Production
  • Grinder footprint: 2.6 x 2.6 m
  • Throughput 140 dry kg MFC/h
  • Suitable for all chemical and most recycled pulps
  • Food contact regulatory clearance
EXPLORE THE G250
CLICK TO DOWNLOAD CASE STUDY PDF