Abstract
Flocculation of fibers and its distribution in paper are related to flocculation mechanisms, retention and drainage. Relationship between flocculation mechanisms and physical properties of paper has not been fully studied. In this study, flocculation of fibers was investigated by changing cationic polymers for flocculation mechanism analysis. Flocculation of stock and physical strength of paper were similar when using branched PAM and linear PAM with fillers and microparticles Flocculation and physical strength were also similar when using branched PAM and linear PAM and microparticles without fillers. In that case excessive flocculation was not produced, so formation was improved but physical strength was decreased. When using branched PAM instead of linear PAM with filler addition, drainage time was decreased, air permeability was improved, and physical strength was increased.