Influence of functionalized nano-alumina on improving melamine paper properties

In this study, the effects of using nan-oalumina (aluminum oxide) in combination with melamine formaldehyde resin on the mechanical properties of special impregnated decorative paper was investigated. Melamine formaldehyde resin was treated with 1% (w/w)  functionalized nano-silica with 20 nm particle dimensions in addition to functionalized nano-alumina with 20 and 50 nm particle dimensions at 3 weight levels of 0.5, 1 and 5% (w/w) and then, they were used to laminate the base papers. Papers were first impregnated with urea formaldehyde resin and air dried; then, they were laminated with melamine formaldehyde resin mixed with the desired nanoparticles using a painting hair brush. Characteristics of final prepared specimens including resistance to the wearing, cigarette  burns, staining, cracking and impacting were evaluated. The results showed that the resistance to wearing and cracking properties of the laminated papers improved by using nano-alumina, and the addition of finer nano-alumina in melamine formaldehyde resin for coatings of special impregnation papers resulted in a greater improvement in wear and crack resistance indices. Nano-alumina did not have a statistically significant effect on improving cigarette burning resistance, although qualitative comparisons indicated improved cigarette burn resistance with nano-alumina 50 nm and the use of higher percentage of nano-alumina also statistically improved cigarette burning resistance. All in all, nano-alumina with finer and more functional dimensions can be recommended for melamine decorative paper