Paper Coating Applications
Because the AFM directly shows the micron and submicron structure of paper coatings, the AFM is useful for helping to develop new paper coating processes. It is also possible to understand process failure by comparing the surface structure of paper from a good process and the structure from a failed process.
Gloss: The length scale of AFM measurements is the same length scale that controls the gloss properties of paper coatings. Thus the AFM is useful for helping to understand the relationship between surface topography, gloss and delta gloss.
Engineered Papers: A second application is the use of the AFM for engineered papers. The AFM readily measures the sizes and shape of surface particles and structure with dimensions ranging from a few nanometers to a few microns. By understanding the relationship between surface structure and coating performance, engineered papers can be improved.
The AFM is useful for visualizing surface structure, for making quantitative surface measurements, and for studying the dispersion of particles in the coating.
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