Degradable Foam Tray Based on High-concentration Dispersed Cellulose Fibers Obtained by a Hot-press Baking Process

keywords:degradable foam  cellulose fiber dispersion  cassava starch  polyvinyl alcohol

Abstract:Degradable industrial packaging foam trays made from cellulose fibers were fabricated using a hot-press baking process. Bleached softwood pulp fibers with a concentration of 30% were dispersed at a high speed under the action of a dispersant. The effects of the dispersant dosage of the fibers on the porosity, foam density, and static compression characteristics were discussed. Furthermore, the effects of the reinforcing adhesive including polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and cassava starch on the physical and mechanical properties of the foam trays were studied, as well as the relationship between these properties and the microstructure of the foam trays. The dispersant enhanced the rheological and blistering properties of the fiber dispersion. As the dispersant dosage increased from 2% to 4%, the foam density gradually increased and the compressive strain performance and residual compressive strain of the foam trays decreased. Under the condition of constant dosage of dispersant, increasing the fiber proportion from 67% to 77% improved the porosity and foam density and slightly reduced the static compression performance. In additioton, the static compression resistance of the foamed materials was improved by increasing the PVA dosage since PVA was beneficial for improving the strength of the foam trays.