Article Impact of Retention Agents on Functional Properties of Recycled Paper in Sustainable Manufacturing Edyta Małachowska 1,2
1 Institute of Wood Sciences and Furniture, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, 159 Nowoursynowska Str., 02-787 Warsaw, Poland; edyta_malachowska@sggw.edu.pl; Tel.: +48-22-59-385-45 2 Natural Fibers Advanced Technologies, 42A Blekitna Str., 93-322 Lodz, Poland Abstract: The proper dosing and optimization of retention additives are necessary to en- sure the desired benefits without compromising other aspects of the paper manufacturing process. In this study, the effects of a cationic polyelectrolyte based on acrylamide and a cationic derivative of acrylic acid on the different properties of paper containing recycled fibers were investigated. The structural and tensile properties were examined through vari- ous analyses to determine the optimal dosage of the retention additive. The results obtained indicate that while the retention agent can enhance papermaking efficiency by improving retention, drainage, and sheet formation, it also negatively impacts the tensile strength and surface smoothness of the recycled paper. This complexity highlights the importance of a balanced approach in optimizing retention aid dosages. Determining the optimum dosage of such an agent requires multiple trials and analyses with varying dosages. This review aims to offer a background for engineers seeking to enhance the competitiveness and reduce production costs of their paper products, as well as for researchers striving to surpass the existing standards and achieve innovative outcomes.
Keywords: retention; wastepaper; papermaking ability; fibers; secondary pulp
1. Introduction In recent years, the paper industry has increasingly embraced sustainable prac- tices, driven by both economic and environmental considerations. The inherent sus- tainable nature of papermaking—recycling fibrous materials and reducing resource consumption—positions it as a key industry for achieving circular economy objectives. However, to fully realize its potential as a sustainable industry, there is a pressing need to adopt greener, more efficient processes that minimize the environmental impact and resource use. As highlighted in recent studies [1], advancements in process technology, along with innovative chemical additives, play a critical role in achieving these goals. The role of retention aids in this context is particularly significant. Paper production, especially from recycled pulp, requires support from various auxiliary chemicals. Func- tional chemicals not only directly affect the properties of the paper but are also added to increase production efficiency and improve the operation of the paper machine. Retention aids are among the chemicals used to support the process. In paper production, the goal is to achieve the highest possible retention of fine fractions. High retention efficiency during the paper-formation process is crucial for the effectiveness of papermaking systems, as it significantly impacts both the operation of the paper machine and the quality of the finished product. However, during the formation of the paper web, only a portion of the fine fraction is retained in the paper. At the same
Academic Editor: Asterios Bakolas
Received: 19 November 2024 Revised: 11 January 2025 Accepted: 16 January 2025 Published: 17 January 2025
Citation: Małachowska, E. Impact of Retention Agents on Functional Properties of Recycled Paper in Sustainable Manufacturing. Appl. Sci. 2025 , 15 , 875. https://doi.org/ 10.3390/app15020875 Copyright: © 2025 by the author. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/ licenses/by/4.0/).
Appl. Sci. 2025 , 15 , 875
https://doi.org/10.3390/app15020875
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