Cationic Paper Retention Aid

Properties:

In the papermaking process, papermaking cationic retention and drainage aid can retain the padding, the small fiber, the sizing agent, and so on. It reduces their loss and improves the filtration and the dehydration of paper. Add papermaking cationic retention and drainage aid outside the copper net of a papermaking machine. It is advantageous to solid-liquid separation, improves the efficiency of the papermaking machine, and reduces production costs.

Specification:

Item	Specification
Appearance	Colorless to slightly yellow liquid
Solid content	39–41% (typical 40%)
Cationic Degree	Medium/High (customizable)
pH	5.0~7.0
Viscosity (25℃)	40000~70000 cps

Mechanism:

The superior retention and dewatering performance of cationic polymers stems from a multi-level synergistic mechanism. The quaternary ammonium (—N⁺(CH₃)₃) and amine (—NH₃⁺) groups on polymer chains rapidly adsorb onto negatively charged regions of fiber surfaces rich in ionized carboxyl groups, shifting the Zeta potential from approximately -35mV to near-neutral, thereby eliminating electrostatic repulsion between fibers. The polymer chains then undergo a conformational transition from an extended to a flattened state, with hydrophobic segments embedding into fiber micropores, upgrading the binding force from purely electrostatic attraction to a multi-point anchoring effect combining electrostatic, hydrogen-bonding, and van der Waals interactions. This significantly enhances floc shear resistance and supports effective fiber flocculation under high-shear conditions typical of headbox and wire sections.

When integrated into a ternary retention system with high-specific-surface-area microparticles such as colloidal silica or bentonite (up to 800m²/g), cationic polymers drive a sequential micro-flocculation process: high-charge-density polymers first form charge patches that capture fine fibers, while high-molecular-weight polymers bridge them into larger flocs that are subsequently broken by shear into uniform 5–20μm micro-flocs, which then bind with microparticles to form dense, homogeneous composite flocs. This mechanism simultaneously achieves a dewatering rate improvement of approximately 40% and elevates fine fiber retention from 52% to over 78%, directly contributing to measurable white water solids reduction and lower fresh water consumption.

Cationic polymers do not rely on charge neutralization alone to achieve retention. Instead, through the synergistic coupling of precise charge regulation, conformational anchoring, and spatial bridging, they concurrently accomplish high-efficiency fine fiber retention and rapid water removal in the wet end — a dual-performance capability that underpins their irreplaceable role in modern wet-end chemistry.

Using:

Please first have a small test to confirm the correct method and dosage. Papermaking cationic retention and drainage aid can be used as a single component. Also, papermaking cationic retention and drainage aid can be used as a cationic component which is in the retention and drainage system. The effect will be better if it compounds with starch retention and drainage aid.

Recommended Dosage: Typical dosage ranges from 0.05% to 0.3% on oven-dry pulp, with the exact amount determined by the charge demand of the specific furnish.

Addition Point: Inject into the headbox or after the thick stock pump, upstream of the forming wire.

Dilution Guidelines: Dilute with clear water to a working solution of 0.1%–0.5% solids, and dose via a continuous metering pump for consistent delivery.

Optimization: Conduct a Jar Test (dynamic or static retention trial) prior to full-scale application to determine the optimal charge density and dosage for your specific system.

Packing and storage:

Papermaking cationic retention and drainage aid can be packed into 125kg/plastic drum, 200kg/plastic drum, or 1000 kg/IBC drum.

Pack and preserve the product in a sealed, cool and dry condition, and avoid contacting strong oxidants. The term of validity: 12months. Transportation: Non-dangerous goods.

Related Product:

Cationic Polyacrylamide for Papermaking