In-situ preparation of nano-calcium carbonate/cellulose fiber composite and its application in fluff pulp

Abstract

Calcium carbonate/cellulose fiber composites combining natural polymers and inorganic particles are promising materials for preparing fluff pulp. In this study, calcium carbonate (CaCO3) particles were in-situ precipitated on cellulose fiber surfaces to decrease the level of hydrogen bonding. The results showed that nano CaCO3 particles precipitated and dispersed well on the fiber surface. The fluff pulp made from cellulose/CaCO3 modified fibers exhibited high effectiveness in the dry defibration process and good adsorption capacity due to the weak hydrogen bonding. The burst index of the handsheets decreased 31% (based on the ash content of 1.48 wt. %) without compromising the adsorption capacity of the fluff pulp.