Custom Manufacturing, Project Outsourcing, your Trusted Partner from China
The effectiveness of Alkyl Ketene Dimer (AKD) wax as a paper sizing agent lies in its unique chemical structure and its ability to react with cellulose fibers. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. supplies AKD wax that leverages these scientific principles to deliver superior hydrophobicity and performance in paper products. Understanding the underlying science provides valuable insights for optimizing its application.
At its core, AKD wax is a dimer formed from ketenes. The key functional group is the beta-lactone ring, which is highly reactive. When dispersed in water and applied to paper pulp, the AKD molecules come into contact with the cellulose fibers. Cellulose, a polymer of glucose units, has numerous hydroxyl (-OH) groups on its surface. The AKD molecule reacts with these hydroxyl groups through an esterification process. This reaction covalently bonds the hydrophobic alkyl chains of the AKD molecule to the cellulose fiber.
This esterification reaction is what imparts the desired hydrophobicity, or water-repelling property, to the paper. The long, non-polar alkyl chains of the AKD molecule orient themselves outwards from the fiber surface, creating a barrier that prevents water molecules from readily penetrating the paper structure. The efficiency of this process is influenced by several factors, including the concentration of AKD, the pH of the papermaking system, and the temperature during drying, which often completes the reaction and 'cures' the sizing agent.
The stability of the AKD emulsion and its ability to spread evenly across the fiber surface are also crucial scientific considerations. The reactive nature of AKD means it can also hydrolyze in the presence of water, converting into a less reactive beta-keto acid and eventually a ketone. This is why careful control of process parameters, including proper emulsification and avoiding prolonged exposure to water before drying, is essential. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. ensures their AKD wax is formulated for optimal stability and reactivity in typical papermaking conditions.
The scientific understanding of AKD's reaction mechanism highlights why it is a preferred sizing agent for many applications. It provides durable, effective hydrophobicity and can even contribute to improved paper strength by acting as a matrix in the paper structure. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is committed to providing AKD wax that adheres to the highest scientific standards, ensuring consistent and reliable performance for paper manufacturers worldwide.
Manufacturing Facilities
Professional Export Experience
to Global Customers
1. 20 years of R&D, manufacturing and sales experience, serving customers in 60 countries and regions around the world;
2. Own R&D laboratory, pilot platform and large-scale production workshop, which can meet the audit requirements of global customers;
3. We can satisfy customers' perfect transition from small scale lab requirements (gram level) to commercialization requirements (hundred tons level).
A: We don't have Minimum Order Quantity, exact quantity should be provided before quotation for us to calculate the exact cost.
A: We don't provide free samples due to lots of request and expensive international courier's cost, we can deduct the sample charge after commercial order placed.
A: Our payment terms: Small or sample order: T/T IN ADVANCE. Commercial order: First order should be by T/T IN ADVANCE or L/C at sight, and following orders T/T 30~90days is acceptable subject to approval of credit application.
