Abstract:
Reduction of paper smoothness using DBD plasma was studied. Main parameters were high voltage (6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 kV), paper type (fine printing paper, PVC-coated paper, card paper and transparency ) and time (2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 seconds). Smoothness of paper was assessed by slide angle test, printing test and scanning electron microscope. Results from the slide angle test revealed the following. For the fine printing paper, the maximum angle (maximum obtained roughness) was obtained at 10 kV and 8 seconds. For the PVC-coated paper, the maximum angle was obtained at 7 kV and 8 seconds. For the card paper, the maximum angle was obtained at 10 kV and 4 seconds. For the transparency, the maximum angle was obtained at 6 kV and 10 seconds and 7 kV and 4 seconds. Inkjet and laser printing test and observation under optical microscope of the fine printing paper and the card paper revealed that the ink smeared out more on the fine printing paper for inkjet printing. Observation under scanning electron microscope found more physical alteration on the surface of the PCV-coated paper and the transparency than the fine printing paper and the card paper. This was because the surface of the PCV-coated paper and the transparency contained plastic, which exhibited smoothness, so changes were observed more clearly.