Characteristics of Carboxymethyl Hemicellulose (CMX) and Its Strengthening Mechanism

In this study, three kinds of rough-wrought hemicelluloses (RHCs) were obtained via alkali extraction on different raw materials. One was untreated Phyllostachys edulis powder; the second was obtained via benzyl alcohol extraction of Phyllostachys edulis powder; and the third was holocellulose of Phyllostachys edulis powder. Carboxymethyl hemicelluloses (CMXs) were prepared by the alkalization and etherification of RHCs and were used to enhance the tensile strength of household paper. The results demonstrated a synergistic effect between CMX and polyamide epichlorohydrin resin (PAE), and the addition of small amount of CMX (0.35 kg/t pulp) can significantly improve the dry and wet tensile indices of paper. Study results of CMX strengthening mechanism revealed that the addition of CMX can improve the retention of PAE, especially the fine fiber, due to the adsorption of charges. The use of CMX in paper not only saves production costs but also reduces the proportion of long fiber, which is beneficial to the closed circulation and treatment of white water.