To improve filler-fiber bonding in paper,we prepared starch-filler composites using a starch-fatty acid complex formation method.These composites served as a papermaking filler to improve the physical properties of the paper,filler retention and the sizing effect.We measured the solubility of the starch-fatty acid complex in water at different temperatures.The results indicated that the starch-fatty acid complexes have very low solubility in water below 70 deg C,which can be easily coated on clay surface to modify clay-fiber bonding ability.Tests of the clay-starch composite-filled handsheets showed that paper strength could increase more than 100% to about 200% compared to untreated clay.When we used unmodified clay,the z-direction tensile strength of the handsheet decreased as the clay content increased,but it increased when the starch-fatty acid composite-modified filler was used.We also found that the presence of fatty acids in the complex increased the water-repellant property of the handsheet,which can be used to aid in sizing during papermaking.Filler distribution and bonding characteristics between the composite and fiber were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
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