INVESTIGATING THE AGING STABILITY AND THERMAL PROPERTIES OF CHITOSAN-COATED PAPER FOR SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING APPLICATIONS

Paper is a valuable material in important areas such as printing, packaging, healthcare, food and agriculture. Its ageing process is influenced by storage conditions, microbiological factors and chemical composition. Chitosan, which is compatible with cellulose, is widely used as an additive and coating in paper manufacturing. Understanding the ageing stability of chitosan-coated paper is crucial from a scientific and practical point of view. The aim of this study was to investigate the thermal stability of chitosan-coated woodfree wrapping paper. Pulp and four paper samples were investigated, with three samples coated with different amounts of chitosan. Accelerated thermal ageing at 105 °C for 72 hours was performed, along with dynamic thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and evaluation of colour changes. The results showed that higher chitosan coating improved the ageing stability due to improved cross-linking with the paper substrate, resulting in higher strength. Thermogravimetric analysis showed thermal stability improved by 2.6 °C with higher chitosan coating. The surface of the coated paper samples appeared more uniform and the barrier properties were improved. The chitosan coating had a positive effect on the ageing stability and thermal properties of wood-free wrapping paper. Its potential as an effective additive and coating in paper production was highlighted. Understanding the relationship between the amount of chitosan, ageing stability and performance characteristics is crucial for the development of sustainable and high-performance paper products in various fields.