In the production process of paper making, foam is a common but thorny problem. It may be caused by slurry mixing, chemical addition, or high-temperature processes, resulting in paper defects, decreased equipment efficiency, and even paper breakage.
So, how does the paper defoamer effectively solve the foam problem? The appearance of paper defoamer has become the "invisible guard" of the production line by destroying the stability of foam. The molecules of defoamer for paper making permeate the foam liquid membrane, partially reducing the surface tension, causing the liquid membrane to break due to uneven force. At the same time, by covering the surface of foam material, gas retention is prevented, thus inhibiting the regeneration of foam.
The defoamers we see in our daily lives can be simply divided into three categories. The common oil-based defoamers use mineral oil as a carrier and are suitable for low-speed paper machines. They have low cost but are prone to residue. Next is silicon-based defoamers, which are efficient and resistant to high temperatures, but the dosage needs to be reasonably controlled to avoid sedimentation. In addition, it is a polyether defoamer with good water solubility, suitable for high-speed paper machines, and more environmentally friendly. Therefore, when choosing defoamers, it is necessary to consider the paper type, process, and environmental requirements, and reasonably select more suitable paper defoamers.
In summary, the rational and efficient application of paper defoamers can not only improve paper quality and reduce energy consumption, but also adapt to the trend of green production. In the future, with the advancement of nanotechnology and biobased materials, paper defoamers will develop towards a more intelligent and environmentally friendly direction.