Abstract
In this study, the effects of ultrasonic cell crushing apparatus on the properties of recycling bamboo pulp fibers and handsheets were evaluated. Repeated recycling of bamboo fibers led to the reduction in paper tensile strength, but ultrasonic treatment resulted in strength enhancement. The ultrasonic treatment of pulp fibers was found to be preferred as regards strength improvement due to enhanced inter‐fiber bonding strength. Pulp recycling also led to the reduction in pulp WRV (water retention value), while sonication was able to improve the WRV. Optical microscopic observations indicated that ultrasonic treatment was basically related to fiber swelling and fibrillation, which contributed to strength enhancement.
