Analysis of paper by laser-induced plasma spectroscopy

Abstract Material distributions in paper and paper coatings are important factors which determine the characteristics and quality of paper. We have used laser-induced plasma spectroscopy (LIPS) to determine various properties of coated and uncoated papers. Depth profiles of double coated papers were determined. Microscopic variations of pigments in a double-coated paper were analyzed. It was observed, that the two coating layers can be distinguished, if they differ enough in composition. Filler distributions of uncoated copier papers were determined. The surface of the paper was studied for five samples containing different amounts of binder in the coating. Lateral contamination in paper an…