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ATLANTA-- June 14, 2002 -- Lorraine Vander Wielen is conducting
groundbreaking research in the area of fiber modification and
fiber-to-fiber bonding. Ms. Vander Wielen has a master's degree
in paper science from the Institute of Paper Science and Technology
(IPST), where she is currently doing research in pursuit of her
Ph.D.
 Dr.
Arthur J. Ragauskas explains, "Lorraine is doing
research that is part of our overall vision to develop
innovative technological solutions for improving the
physical properties and value of pulp fibers. Her research
deals with manipulation of paper and paper fibers with
a dielectric discharge known as a corona discharge. It
is widely known that fiber charge is critical to fiber
and paper properties. In paper, the charge between fibers
is attributed to the acid groups; these acid groups are
known to impact fiber swelling and have a direct impact
on specific bond strength. Corona discharge has the potential
to modify the surface properties of pulp fibers in such
a manner that could provide new practical technologies
to improve fiber swelling and fiber-to-fiber bonding."
Corona discharge treatment applies
a high voltage to the sample between two electrodes.
This technology has been used to improve the adhesive
bond between flat surfaces, such as plastic and polymer
laminates, and to enhance adhesion of inks and laminates
to the surface of cellulose, paper, and wood. It has
also been used to improve the adhesion of paint and glue.
The bonding between layers of cellulose films, such as
cellulose acetate and cellophane, have also been enhanced
via corona discharge treatment.
The application of these technologies
to pulp and paper have historically garnered less attention,
but several groups are now racing toward new practical
applications for the pulp and paper industry.
Initial studies by Lorraine have shown
that corona discharge treatment provides a significant
increase in acid groups at the fiber surface. The ability
to alter fiber surface charge by mechanical means offers
new opportunities to those papermakers seeking to modify
fibers without chemicals. By controlling treatment dosages,
the surface charge of fibers may be modified without
damaging the fibers. If this research is successful it
would mean that paper companies could produce paper with
significantly improved physical properties.
Dr. Ragauskas' research spans a period
of twelve years at the Institute of Paper Science and
Technology. His graduate research program is funded by
industry and governmental consortiums and has been directed
at utilizing fundamental principles involved in mechanical
and kraft pulping and bleaching to yield improved product
and process performance properties.
About IPST
Founded in 1929, the Institute of Paper Science and Technology
(IPST) IPST has established itself as the premier institute for
the advanced study of pulp and papermaking processes in the United
States. IPST is a privately funded graduate research institute
whose scientific and educational purpose evolves from its unique
relationship with the pulp and paper industry. The multi-disciplinary
program emphasizes chemical engineering, mechanical engineering,
chemistry, biology, physics, and other natural sciences. The
Institute has a student to faculty ratio of 3:1, offering students
direct access to the Institute's faculty members and researchers,
many of whom are world-renowned for their commitment to innovation,
education and research.
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