Optimizing Water Resistance of Polymeric/PigmentedLinerboard Coatings Using Pigmentsfor Linerboard Wax Replacement, 2006 Coating & Graphic Arts Conference

Wax replacement alternative technology for corrugated containers is becoming increasingly prevalent but requires improved economics over wax to further promote its introduction into the industry. Incorporation of pigments with appropriate characteristics can increase barrier properties of coatings and improve the economics of wax alternative coatings. This paper demonstrates through laboratory trials the possibilities of improved water resistance by using clay base coats followed by a polymer top coat in a two stage coating process. The combination improves the polymer coating quality while increasing the compressive strength of linerboard allowing a reduction in the weights of required polymer top coat and linerboard for increased performance and cost effectiveness. Incorporation of platy clays and talc as blends with an acrylic polymer was also investigated along with calendering effects to suggest a best case scenario for simplicity and optimal economics.