Paper surface science program (PSSP)

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What is pssp

The Paper Surface Science Program is a cooperative program between industry and the University of Maine that conducts pre-competitive research that benefits members of the paper industry, including suppliers, producers, converters, and brands. As an industry-sponsored program, PSSP focuses on developing both fundamental and applied knowledge about paper surface treatment processes and structure-performance relationships in the final products.  At the University of Maine, PSSP trains students and scientists to perform fundamental research on projects of value to the sponsoring companies, training the next generation of paper scientists.

Research

The research projects in PSSP are driven by industry needs and faculty interests in a highly collaborative environment spanning the disciplines of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, and Sustainable Materials. Research is performed by graduate students (MS and PhD), postdoctoral fellows, and visiting scientists under the guidance of the faculty. Some projects are carried out with scientists from the sponsoring companies. Faculty and industrial sponsors work together to develop research projects that are of interest to both industry and the faculty, addressing key fundamental challenges across the paper industry. The research program covers surface treatment of paper from application processes to finished product performance. It is organized around the following areas.

Current projects include investigations of:

  • interactions between coating and base paper stock
  • coat weight predictions and new processes for the application of suspensions on porous substrates
  • coating holdout and formation using bio based materials
  • understanding how base paper stock and coating structure affect physical properties during converting steps (e.g., folding).

Projects in this area investigate

  • the mechanisms involved in the development of the structure of coatings during drying
  • the relationships between bulk and surface structural characteristics to barrier properties
  • factors determining adhesion (e.g., blocking) and cohesion (e.g., heat sealing) in coated papers
  • the influence of pigmentation and of the type of binder on the surface chemistry and the surface energy of pigmented coatings
  • the development of new barrier coating formulations, structures, and application methods.

INDUSTRY MEMBERSHIP

Through sponsorship each company receives the following benefits:

  • Industry-driven research collaboration: PSSP advances paper science by improving materials, processes, and products through industry-funded, university-based research.
  • Equal sponsor involvement & governance: Each sponsoring company has equal representation on the PSSP Advisory Board, meeting twice yearly to review research and set future directions.
  • Direct influence on research priorities: Sponsors help define projects, provide materials and expertise, and collaborate on joint research and publications.
  • Access to talent, equipment, and expertise: Sponsors interact with graduate students (future hires), university researchers, advanced equipment, and scientists from other sponsoring companies.
  • Early access & recognition: Sponsors preview publications, receive software and research files, gain insight into new testing methods, and are recognized in presentations and publications.

Contact Information

Dr. William M. Gramlich
Director of Paper Surface Science Program
Associate Professor of Chemistry

william.gramlich@maine.edu