ROQUETTE VECTOR® TO IMPROVE QUALITY AND COST IN TISSUE
Roquette has introduced a new biopolymer Vector® that, it says, can help to reduce costs and improve quality at the same time.. Vector® is used in the wet-end process to enhance strength and makes it possibile to adjust the refining level and the pulp composition (softness, alternative fibres). This allows the producer to improve quality, characteristics and costs.

It is a ready-to-use product in liquid form that complies with FDA and BfR agreements. The base material comes from a renewable, natural source and is completely biodegradable. It can be used in a wide range of tissue products.

The primary bonding mechanism of tissue relies on the natural anionicity of paper fibres suspended in water. When Vector® molecules are introduced, the cationic groups are attracted to the anionically charged fibres and strong ionic bonds are formed. This electrostatic attraction between Vector® and the cellulose fibres results in moderate flocculation of the furnish and improved drainage and retention on the forming fabric.

The secondary mechanism is based on the hydrogen bonds, the force that bonds fibre to fibre, as the sheet is dried. These bonds are enhanced by refining and/or Vector®. With this type of bonding the strength of the wet sheet is improved as well as the characteristics of the final paper.

Basically, the product improves the strength of the paper. In this condition, the tissue producer can not only reach a higher paper quality but also, for example, increase productivity. Vector® IC increases retention, improving wet-end chemical efficiency and giving better wet resistance. It can increase internal strength without reducing softness. And it can help reduce dusting.

For more information, contact: Regis Houze, Bio polymer project leader, Roquette.
E-mail: regis.houze@roquette.com