WO2019118175A1

WO2019118175A1 - Pigmented size press and surface size for coated paper and paperboard

Info

Publication number: WO2019118175A1
Application number: PCT/US2018/062743
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael Francis KOENING
Original assignee: Graphic Packaging International, Llc
Priority date: 2017-12-11
Filing date: 2018-11-28
Publication date: 2019-06-20
Also published as: US20190177920A1

Abstract

A size press composition for paper or paperboard is provided, which includes: binder; pigment:; synthetic surface sizing agent; and water; wherein the binder and pigment are present in a binder : pigment weight ratio of about 10:1 to about 1:10; and wherein the synthetic surface sizing is present in a synthetic surface sizing agent : (binder and pigment) weight ratio of about 2:100 to about 10:100.

Description

TITLE

PIGMENTED SIZE PRESS AND SURFACE SIZE FOR COATED PAPER AND

PAPERBOARD

BACKGROUND

The present inventor has observed that in papemiaking, one normally sees a Sot of dewatering of the coating at the first coating station . This is more pronounced as the paper/ paperboard basis weight increases, as more fibers are available to absorb the water out of the coating. This can cause loss of coating binder into the sheet with the water, so that higher latex levels are required to compensate for this loss. This can also cause premature immobilization of the coating solids, which makes it difficult to control the coatweight at the blade coater. The dewatering also limits the solids content of the coating that can be used. The inventor has found that it is possible to increase the solids content of the coatings used at both coating heads.

Increased solids content of the coatings means that less water is present for a given coatweight, so higher machine speeds ar possible if the machine speed is limited by drying capability of the paper machine. Paperboard can also be rougher than a lightweight paper, especially as the thickness of the paperboard increases,

Synthetic surface sizing agents, such as styrene acrylic emulsions (S AE), ScripSet^1M styrene maleic anhydride (SMA), or alkyl ketene dimer (AK.D) are commonly used to improve printability of the paper surface. These synthetic surface sizing agents can improve toner adhesion for electrophotographic printing, and reduce ink bleed for ink jet and flexographic printing.

Starch / GCC mixtures have been used al the size press to make pigmented paper for premium ink jet and laser paper. These papers are uncoated, and are not subsequently coated, but are pigmented at the size press as a replacement for coated paper

lire inventor lias found that it is possible to modify the size press formulation to create a water barrier layer to decrease or prevent the dewatering of the coating, and also to fill in the pores at the paper surface. Hie inventor has found that, surprisingly, both of these will help keep the coating pigments and binder, for example a latex binder, at the paper surface, This wi i also make the sheet smoother so that less coating is needed lo attain a given smoothness BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL EMBODIMENTS One embodiment provides a size press composition for paper or paperboard, comprising: binder;

pigment;

synthetic surface sizing agent; and

water;

wherei the binder and pigment are present in a binder : pigment weight ratio of about 10:1 to about 1: 10; and

wherein the synthetic surface sizing is present in a synthetic surface sizing agen : (binder and pigment) weight ratio of about 2:100 to about 10:100.

Another embodiment provides a size web, for paper or paperboard, comprising:

a dried web comprising ceMosic fibers; and

the size press composition on one or both sides of the dried web.

Another embodiment provides a coated or imeoated paper or paperboard, comprising the sized web,

Another embodiment provides a paper or paperboard, comprising:

a sized web, comprising:

a dried web comprising cellulosic fibers; and

a size press composition on one or both sides of the dried web, the size press composition comprising:

binder;

pigment;

synthetic surface sizing agent; and

substantially no water;

wherei the binder and pigment are present m a hinder : pigment weight ratio of about 10:1 to about 1; 10; and

wherein the synthetic surface sizing is present in a synthetic surface sitting agent : (binder and pigment) weig t ratio of about 2:100 to about 10: 100.

Another embodiment provides an article, comprising the paper or paperboard.

Another embodiment provides a method, comprising contacting, on a papermaking machine; a dried web comprising cellulosic fibers; and

the size press composition;

to form a sized web.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL EMBODIMENTS

In one embodiment, a size press composition for paper or paperboard is provided, which includes:

binder;

pigment;

synthetic surface sizing agent; and

water.

wherein the binder and pigment: are present in a binder : pigment weight ratio of about 10:1 to about 1:10; and

wherein the synthetic surface sizing is present in a synthetic surface sizing agent : (binder and pigment) weight ratio of about 2:100 to about 10: 100

In embodiments herein, the size press composition may be in the form of an aqueous solution, slurry, emulsion, dispersion, suspension, mixture, thixotropic composition, or colloidal composition.

In embodimen s herei , the binder ay include one or more of natural product, casein, soy protein, faty acid salts and copolymers, water soluble polymer, water soluble starch co- binder, polyvinyl alcohol, poly acrylic acid, poly acrylic add salt, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyethylene oxide, polymer emulsion, acrylate, styrene acrylate, styrene butadiene, styrene acrylonitrile, polyurethane, polyvinyl acetate, polyethylene emulsion, polyethylene (PE) polymers; polyethylene terephthalate (PET) polymers; polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) polymers; polylactic acid (PLA) polymers; polyg!ycolie acid (PGA) polymers; polyvinyl acetate polymers; waxes; polyurethane polymers; or epoxy resins, starch, liigh-a ylose corn starch, waxy corn starch, tapioca starch, cationic starch, ethylated starch, oxidized starch, corn starch, potato starch, rice starch, dent com starch, waxy starch, modified starch, FilmKote™ by Ingredion, FilmKote 370™ by In gredi on (modified starch), Aquabloc™ by Aquasoh Aquabloc 403™ by Aquasol (starch). Flex Starch™ by Tale and Lyle, Gear-Cote 640™ by Tate and Lyle (waxy starch), PG 270™ by Ingredion (ethylated starch), RAP 810™ by Trinseo (styrene acrylate), XU 31669 SB™1atex by Trinseo (styrene butadiene), XU 31695 ^iM by Trinsep (styrene acrylonitrile), Polyco 3960™ by Dow (poly vinyl acetate), Polyco 2160 1PA * * by Dow (poly vinyl acetate), binder, Hypod 1001™ by Dow (polyethylene emulsion), Hypod 9105™ by Dow (polyethylene emulsion), or a combination thereof,

In embodiments herein, the binder may include one or more natural products such as casein, soy protein, and fatty acid salts and copolymers, water soluble polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol, poly acrylic add and salts, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol polyethylene oxide, etc, and polymer emulsions such as acrylates, styrene acrylates, styrene butadienes, polyurethanes, polyvinyl acetates, polyethylene (PE) polymers; polyethylene terephthalate (PET) polymers; poiyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) polymers; polyiactic acid (PLA) polymers; polyglyeolic add (PGA) polymers; polyvinyl acetate polymers; waxes; polyurethane polymers; or epoxy resins, and their copolymers and derivatives. Any combination thereof may he suitabl used.

In embodiments herein, the binder may include a starch selected from the group including high-amylose com starch, waxy com starch, tapioca starch, cationic starch, ethylated starch, oxidized starch, com starch, potato starch, ri.ee starch, dent corn starch, waxy starch, modified starch, FiimKote^1M by Ingredion, PiimKote 370™ by Ingredion (modified starch), Aquabloc™ by Aquasol, Aquabloc 403™ by Aquasol (starch), Rex Starch™ b Tate and Lyle, Clear-Cole 640™ by Tate and Lyle (waxy starch), PG 270™ by Ingredion (ethylated starch), and a combination thereof.

I embodiments herein, the hinder may include a water-soluble polymer hinder selected from the group including starch binders, ceilulosic binders, polyvinyl alcohol binders,

polyacrylie add binders, polymelhacry lie acid binders, polyvinylamine binders, polyacrylamide binders, polyether binders, sulfonated polystyrene binders, carbox l ated polystyrene binders, and a combination thereof.

In embodiments herein, the water-soluble polymer binder may be a starch binder.

I embodiments herein, the binder may include a polymer latex binder selected from the group including styrene butadiene rubber latexes, acrylic polymer latexes, polyvinyl acetate latexes, styrene acrylic copolymer latexes, polyurethane latexes, starch/acrylic copolymer latexes, starch/styrene acrylic copolymer latexes, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH)/styrene acrylic copolymer latexes, PVQH/acrylic copolymer latexes, and a combination thereof. In embodiments herein, the polymer latex hinder may he a stymne-aerylic latex binder.

In embodiments herein, the hinder may he ethylated starch.

In embodiments herein, any combination of binder may he suitably used.

I embodiments herein_» the pigment may he selected from the group including ground calcium carbonate (GCC), precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC), clay, kaolin day, talc, mica, calcium sulfate, absorbent plastic pigment particles, calcined clay pigment particles, titanium dioxide pigment particles_» barium sulfate pigment particles, silica pigment particles, zeolite pigment particles, fumed silica pigment particles, alumina pigment particles, bentonite clay pigment particles, HC (Hydrocarb) 90 ^iM by Omya (ground calcium carbonate), flC (Hydrocarb) 60™ by Omya (ground calcium carbonate), Hydrafine 90W^1M by KaMin (clay), and a mixture thereof.

In embodiments herein, the pigment may be ground calcium carbonate (GCC).

In embodiment herein, any combination of pigment may he suitabl used

In embodiments herein, the pigment may he finel divided, e.g,, having a size range of from about 0,5 to about 5 microns. This range includes ail value and subranges therebetween_» including about 0.5, 0-6, 07, 0.8, 09, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 microns.

In embodiments herein, the synthetic surface sizing agent generally refers to a non-starch surface sizing agent. The synthetic surface sizing agent is not particularly limited and may be selected front the group including styrene maleic anhydride (SMA), alkyl ketene dimer (AKD), AKD (IP Size 2000)™ by Solents (alky! ketene dimer), Scripset 745^1M by Solenis (styrene maleic anhydride), styrene acrylic emulsion (SAE), polymer emulsions with a surface energy of 50 dynes or less after drying, and a combination thereof.

In embodiments herein, the synthetic surface sizing agent may be styrene maleic anhydride (SMA).

In embodiments herein, the synthetic surface sizing agent may be Scripset™.

In embodiments herein, any combination of synthetic surface sizing agent may be suitably used,

In embodiments herein, the size press composition may further include one or more water soluble salt.

In embodiments herein, the water soluble salt may be one or more of a multivalent cationic metal salt, an inorganic salt, an organic salt, or a combination thereof, In embodiments herein, the water soluble salt may be one or more multivalent cationic metal salt, inorganic salt, organic salt, or combination thereof selected from the group including calcium chloride, calcium acetate, calcium magnesium acetate, calcium nitrate, calcium hydroxide, magnesiu chloride, magnesiu sulfate, magnesium nitrate, magnesium sulfate, aluminum chloride, aluminum nitrate, aluminum ehlorohydrate, aluminum sulfate, sodium aluminum sulfate, vanadium chloride, and a combination thereof.

In embodiments herein, the water soluble salt may be calcium chloride.

In embodiments herein, the water soluble salt may be a metal drying salt, multivalent metal drying salt, monovalent metal drying salt, or a combination thereof.

In embodiments herein, a metal drying salt may suitably refer to those metal salts which may improve the dry time of inks deposited or printed on printable substrates by inkjet printing processes.

In embodiments herein, the multivalent metal drying salt may be selected from the group including calcium chloride, calcium acetate, calcium hydroxide, calcium nitrate, calcium sulfate, calcium sulfite, magnesium chloride, magnesium acetate, magnesium nitrate, magnesium sulfate, magnesium sulfite, aluminum chloride, aluminum nitrate, aluminum sulfate, aluminu

di!orohydrate, sodium aluminum sulfate, vanadium chloride, and a combination thereof.

In embodiments herein, the monovalent metal drying salt may be selected from the group including sodium chloride, sodium acetate, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium hydroxide, sodiu silicates, sodium sulfate, sodiu sulfite, sodium nitrate, sodium bromide, potassium chloride, potassium acetate, potassium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, potassium hydroxide, potassium silicates, potassium sulfate, potassium sulfite, potassium nitrate, potassium bromide, lithium chloride, lithium acetate, lithium carbonate lithium bicarbonate, lithium hydroxide, lithium silicates, lithium sulfate, lithium sulfite, lithium nitrate, lithium bromide,, or a combination thereof.

In embodiments herein, any combi ation of salt may be suitably used.

I embodiments herein, i the size press composition, the water soluble salt may be present in an amount of 3 to 30 parts by weight, based on the weight of the composition. This range includes all values and subranges therebetween, including 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 , 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29. and 30 parts by weight, based on the weight of the composition. In embodiments herein, in the size press composition, the water soluble salt may be present in a amount of 5 to 20 parts by weight, based on the weight of the composition. This range Includes all values and subranges therebetween, including 5, 6, 7, 8, , 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20 parts by weight, based on the weight of the composition.

In embodiments herein, in the size press composition, the water soluble salt may be present in an amount such that the metal anion of the water soluble salt has the same equivalent weight as the calcium anion based on 3 to 30 parts by weight of calcium chloride, based on the weight of the composition. This range includes all values and subranges therebetween, including

3, 4, 5, 6, ?, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 8, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, :

30 parts by weight of calcium chloride, based on the weight of the composition.

In embodiments herein, the size press composition may have a % solids of about 1(1 30% solids by weight. This range includes ail values and subranges therebetween, including about 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, and 30 solids by weight, based on the weight of the composition.

In embodiments herein, the size press composition may have a % solid of about 20-30% solids by weight

in embodiments herein, the term "% solids" refers to the percentage of non-volatile, non- liquid components (by weight) that are present in the sizing, coating, composition, etc.

In embodiments herein, one example of the size press composition may Include starch / GCC (2:1 starch: GCC ratio) with Scripset (SMA) surface sizing (5 parts Scripset : 100 parts starch/ GCC) in embodiments herein, as an example, the size press formulation may be applied with a rod-metered size press

in embodiments herein, one example of starch is ethylated starch, one example of pigment is GCC, one example of synthetic surface sizing agent is Scripset. SMA, and one example is applying the size press composition with a rod-metered size press.

In embodiments herein, the hinder and pigment are suitably present in a binder : pigment weight ratio of about 10: 1 to about 1: 10. This range includes all values and subranges therebetween, including 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1:1; 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1:2; 10, 9, 8, 7,

6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1:3; 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1:4; 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, , 3, 2, or 1:5; 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5,

4, 3, 2, or 1:6; 10, 9, 8, 7, 6 , 5, 4, 3. 2, or 1 :7; 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1:8; 10. , 8, 7, 6. 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1:9; and 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1:10, In embodiments herein, in the size press composition, the binder and pigment may be present in a binder : pigment weight ratio of about 4; 1 to about I ; 1.

In embodiments herein, the synthetic surface sizing is suitably present in a synthetic surface sizing agent : (binder and pigment) weight ratio of about 2:100 to about 10:100, This range includes all values and subranges therebetween, including 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. 8, 9, or 10:100.

In embodiments herein, in the size press composition, the synthetic surface sizing may be present in a synthetic surface sizing agent ; (binder and pigment) weight ratio of about 3:100 to about 6: 100.

In another embodiment, a sized web for paper or paperboard is provided, which includes: a dried web including eelMosic fibers: and

the size press compositio on one or both sides of the dried weh.

In embodiments herein, prior to being contacted with the size press composition, the dried web is slot coated, he , the dried web has a zero or Substantially zero Surface loading of a coating or sizing present on one or both sides or surfaces of the web. As used herein, the size press composition is considered to be distinct from coatings such as described in US Patent No. 9.670,621.

In embodiments herein, the sizing may be present on one side, or on both sides of the dried web, hr embodiments herein, if present on both sides of the dried web, the sizing may be the same or different on th respective sides.

In embodiments herein, the sizing may include starch, pigment and Scripsei. In embodiments herein, the sizing may include binders other than starch. In embodiments herein, the sizing may include a combination of starch and non -starch binders. In embodiments herein, the binders other than starch may have greater“binding strength” than starch and hi that case may be used at lower levels than that of starch and still result in coatings that are not“dusty”.

In embodiments herein, other process steps such as drying, coating, and calendering of the paperboard can be performed after the size press treatment, as these subsequent processing steps will not be hindered by these size press treatments, and in some wa vs can be improved.

For example, the size press treatment herein can result in a smoother paperboard, and if desired, can be dried and calendered, resulting in an uncoated (but sized) paperboard with enhanced smoothness and printability. As another example, the paperboar can be coated after the size press treatment, so that subsequent coatings will be smoother, and perhaps can be reduced in thickness and still achieve adequate coverage. As another example, by Including the proper amount and type of surface sizing and/or starch cobinders to the size press formulation, holdout for subsequent coatings can be improved so that less water and water soluble binders are absorbed into the paperboard, resulting in stronger coatings and Improved barrier properties.

In another embodiment, a coated or uncoaled paper or paperboard is provided, which includes the sized web.

In another embodiment, a paper or paperboard is provided, which includes:

a sized web, which includes:

a dried web in .cluding cellulosic fibers; and

a size press composition on one or both sides of the dried web, the size press composition including:

hinder;

pigment;

synthetic surface sizing agent; and

substantially no water;

wherein the binder and pigment are present in a binder : pigment weight ratio of about 10:1 to about 1:10; and

wherein the synthetic surface sizing is present in a synthetic surface sizing agent : (binder and pigment) weight ratio of about 2:100 to about 10: 100.

In embodiments herein, the paper or paperboard may be coated or uncoated

in embodiments herein, the paper or paperboard may include one or more coatings in contact with one or both sides of the sized web.

In embodiments herein, the coatings, e.g., base coat, lop coat, or both, may refer to those compositions which may be applied over the sized web, and do not refer to the size press composition per se. hi embodiments herein, the surface sizing composition may have a lower solids content than that of the coatings, and the surface sizing composition may penetrate into the dried web somewhat, in forming one embodiment of the sized web. The coatings may suitably and independently contain optional additives, such as, for example, a metal salt drying agents, cationic dye fixing agents, optical brightening agents, fluorescent whitening agents, solvents, diluents, anti-scratch and mar resistance agents, dd mers, rheology modifiers, thickeners, lubricants, dispersants, surfactants, or combination thereof. For example, the coating or coatings may independently contain Aleogum L229™ y Ke ira, (styrene acrylic thickener), Berehem 4136™ by Berceii (diglyemde lubricant), Rheocarh 121™ by Coatex, SunKote 455^1M by Oumova (calcium stearate), Accu er 9300™ by Dow (acrylic homopolymer), or a combination thereof. The coating compositions may be independently formulated as an aqueous solution, an aqueous slurry, a colloidal suspension, a liquid mixture, a thixotropic mixture, etc.

In embodiments herein, the paper or paperboard may include one or more coatings on one or both sides of the sized web, such as CI S (coated on one side), C2S (coated on both sides), coated CIS, or coated C2S

I embodiments herein, the paper or paperboard may include a base coat in contact with one or both sides of the sized web.

In embodiments herein, the paper or paperboard may include a base coat one or both sides of the sized web, such as a CIS or C2S coating in contact with sized web,

hi embodiments herein, if coated with a base coat on both sides, the base coats may he the same or different.

In embodiments herein, the paper or paperboard ma include a top coat in contact with the base coat on one or both sides of the sized web.

In embodiments herein, the paper or paperboard may include a top coat, such as a CIS or C2S coating.

In embodiments herein, if coated with a top coat on both sides, the top coats may be the same or different .

In embodiments herein, a dried web refers to a fibrous web that may be formed, created, produced, etc., on a moving wire of a papemiaking machine from an aqueous mixture, furnish, etc , including at least eellulosic fibers, and then dried. In embodiments herein, the web may be suitably dried to contain less than or equal to 10% by weight water. This range includes all values and subranges therebetween, including 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0.5, 0.1% by weight, or less water.

The dried web suitably includes a plurality of eellulosic fibers. The type of eellulosic fiber is not critical, and any such fiber known or suitable for use in paper making can be used.

For example, the web can made from pulp fibers derived from hardwood trees, softwood trees, or a combination of hardwood and softwood trees. The fibers may be prepared for use in a papermaking furnish by one or more known or suitable digestion, refining, and/or bleaching operations such as, for example, known mechanical, tbermpmeehanical, chemical and/or semichemical pulping and/or other well known pulping processes. The term, "hardwood pulps” as tnay be used herein include fibrous pulp derived from the woody substance of deciduous trees (angiosperms) such as birch, oak, beech, maple, and eucalyptus. The term,’’softwood pulps” as may be used herein include fibrous pulps deri ved from the woody substance of coniferous tree {gymnosperms) such as varieties of fir, spruce, and pine, as for example loblolly pine, slash pine, Colorado spruce, balsam fir and Douglas fi . in some embodiments, at least a portion of the pulp fibers may be provided from non-woody herbaceous plants including, but not limited to, kenaf, hemp, jute, flax, sisal, or abaca, although legal restrictions and other considerations may make the utilization of hemp and other fiber sources impractical or impossible. Either bleached or unbleached pulp fiber may be utilized. Recycled pulp fibers are also suitable for use.

In embodiments herein, the dried web may suitably contain from 1 to 99 wt.% of cdlulosie fibers based upon the total weight of the web hi one embodiment, the dried web may contain from 5 to 95 wt% of ceilulosic fibers based upon the total weight of the web. These ranges include any and all values and subranges therebetween, for example, 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50. 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 5 and 99 wt%.

In embodiments herein, the dried web may optionally contain from 1 to 100 wt% ceilulosic fibers originating from softwood species based upon the total amount of celMosic fibers in the dried web. In one embodiment, the dried web may contain 10 to 60 wt% ceilulosic fibers originating fro softwood species based upon the total amount of ceilulosic fibers in the dried web. These ranges include 1, 2, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, and 100wt% and any and all ranges and subranges therein, based upon the total amount of ceilulosic fibers in the dried web.

In embodiments herein, the dried web may alternatively or overlappingly contain from 0.01 to 99 wt.% fibers fro softwood species, based on the total weight of the dried web. In another embodiment, the dried web may contain from 1.0 to 6()wi% fibers from softwood species based upon the total weight of the dried web. These ranges include any and all values and subranges therein. For example, the dried web may contain not more than 001, 005, 0.1, 0.2,

0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, I 2, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 5, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95 and 99wt% softwood based upon the total weight of the dried web. In embodiments herein, all or part of the softwood fibers may optionally originate from softwood species having a Canadian Standard Freeness (CSF) of from 300 to 750. In one embodiment, the dried web contains fibers from a softwood species having a CSF from 400 to 550. These ranges include any and all values and subranges tfrerebetweii, for example, 300, 310, 320, 330, 340. 350, 360. 370, 380. 390, 400. 410, 420. 430, 440. 450, 460, 470, 480. 490, 500, 510, 520, 530, 540, 550, 560, 570, 580, 590, 600, 610, 620, 630, 640, 650, 660, 670, 680, 690, 700, 710, 720, 730, 740, and 750 CSF. Canadian Standard Freeness is as measured by TAPPI T- 227 standard test.

In embo iments herein, the dried web ma optionally contain from 1 to 100 wt% cel!ulosic fibers originating from hardwood species based upon the total amount of cei osie fibers in the dried web. In one embodiment, the dried web may contain fro 30 to 90 wt% eelkilosic fibers originating from hardwood species, based upon the total amount of cel! ulosie fibers in the dried web. These ranges include 1, 2, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60,

65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, and 100wT¾, and any and all values and subranges therein, based upon the total amount of eel lulosic fibers in the dried web.

In embodiments herein, the dried web may alternatively or overlapping!)·' contain from 0.01 to 99 wt% fibers from hardwood species, based upon the total weight of the dried web. In another embodiment, the dried web ma alternatively or overlappingly contain from 60 to

90wt% fibers from hardwood species, based upon the total weight of the dried web, These ranges include any and all values and subranges therebetween, including not more than 0,01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 99 and 99wt , based upon the total weight of the dried web.

In embodiments herein, all or part of the hardwood fibers may optionally originate from hardwood species having a Canadian Standard Freeness of from 300 to 750. In one embodiment, the dried web may contain fibers from hardwood species having CSF values of from 400 to 550. These ranges include 300, 310, 20, 330, 340, 350, 360, 370, 380, 90, 400, 410, 420, 430, 440, 450, 460, 470, 480, 490, 500, 510, 520, 530, 540, 550, 560, 570, 580, 590, 600, 610, 620, 630,

640, 650, 660, 670, 680, 690, 7(X>, 710, 720, 730, 740, and 750 CSF, and any and all ranges and subranges therein.

In embodiments herein, the dried web may optionally contain less refined fibers, for example, less refined softwood fibers, less refined hardwood, or both. Combinations of less refined and more refined fibers axe possible. In one embodiment, the dried web contains fibers that arc at least 2% less refined than that of fibers used in conventional dried webs. This ranee includes all values and subranges therebetween, including at least 2, 5, 10, 15, and 20%.

When the dried web contains both hardwood fibers and softwood fibers, the

hardwood/softwood fiber weight ratio may optionally range from 0.001 to IQG0. In one

embodiment, the hardwood/softwood ratio may range from 90/10 to 30/60. These ranges include all values and subranges therebetween , including 0.00.1, 0.002, 0.005, 0.01, 0.02, 0.05, 0.1.0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, B0, 85, 90, 95, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, and 1000,

In embodiments herein, the softwood fibers, hardwood fibers, or both may be optionally modified by physical and/or chemical processes. Examples of physical processes include, but are not limited to, electromagnetic and mechanical processes. Examples of electrical

modifications include, but are not limited to, processes involving contacting the fibers with an electromagnetic energy source such as light and/or electrical current. Examples of mechanical modifications include, hot are not limited to, processes involving contacting an inanimate object with the fibers. Examples of such inanimate objects include those with sharp and/or dull edges. Such processes also involve, for example, cutting, kneading, pounding, Impaling, and the like, and combinations thereof.

Non-limiting examples of chemical modifications include conventional chemical fiber processes such as crosslinMng and/or precipitation of complexes thereon. Other examples of suitable modifications of fibers include those found in U.S. Patent Nos 6,592,717, 0,592,712,

6,582,557, 6 ,579,415, 6,579,414, 6,506,282, 6,471,824, 6,361,651, 6,146,494, H 1,704,

5,731,080, 5 ,698,688, 5.698,074, 5,667.637. 5,662,773, 5,531,728, 5,443,899, 5,360,420, 5,266,250, 5 ,209,953, 5,160,789, 5,049,235, 4,986,882, 4,496,427, 4,431,481, 4,174,417,

4,166,894 4,(175,136, and 4,022,965, the entire contents of each of which are hereby

incorporated, independently, by reference. Still other examples of suitable modifications of fibers may be found in ELS, Application Nos. 60/654,712. filed February 19, 2005, and

11/358,543, filed February 21, 2006, which may include the addition of optical brightened (I.e. OBAs) as discussed therein, the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporated, independently, by reference. In embodiments herein, the dried web may optionally include“fines.”“Fines” fibers are typically those fibers with average lengths of not more than about 100 pm. Sources of“fines” may be found in Save All fibers, recirculated streams, reject streams, waste fiber streams, and combinations thereof, The amount of“fines” present in the dried web can be modified, for example, by tailoring the rate at which streams are added to the paper making process. In one embodiment, the average lengths of the fines are not more than about 5, 10, 15, 20, 5, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 7.5, 80, 85, 90, 95, and 100 pm, Including any and all ranges and subranges therein.

If used, the“fines” fibers may be present in the dried web together with hardwood fibers, softwood fibers, or both hardwood and softwood fibers.

In embodiments herein, the dried web may optionally contain from 0.01 to 100 wt% fines, based on the total weight of the dried web, lit one embodiment, the dried web may contain from 0.01 to 50wt fines, based upon the total weight of the web. These ranges include all values and subranges therebetween, including not more than 0,0.1, 0,05, 0,1, 0,2, 0,5, , 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95 and 100wt% fines, based upon the total weight of the dried web.

In embodiments herein, the dried web may alternatively or overlapping! y contain from 0.01 to 100 wt% fines, base upon the total weight of the fibers in the dried web. This range includes all values and subranges therebetween, including not more than 0,01 , 0,05, 0.1 , 0,2, 0,5,

I, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 0, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75. 80, 85, 90, 95 and 00wt% fines, based upon the total weight: of the fibers in by the dried web.

In embodiments herein, the paper or paperboard may have a basis weight of from about 8 pt to about 30 pt This range includes all values and subranges therebetween, including about 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24. 25, 6, 27, 28, 29, and 30 pt

In embodiments herein, the paper or paperboard may have a basis weight of from about 1 O pt to about 24 pt.

In another embodiment, an article is provided, which includes the paper or paperboard.

In embodiments herein, the article may be suitable for one or more of inkjet, fiexo, gravure, or offset printing, or a combination of two or more thereof. In embodiments herein, article may be selected from the group including packaging, ood service item, cup, plate, and a combination thereof. In embodiments herein, the paper or paperboard is in the form of cupstockor platestock.

In embodiments herein, the sized web, paper or paperboard, or article may have improved barrier properties, improved water barrier properties, improved oil barrier properties, improved barrier layer for QGWR coating, improved water barrier for cop and/or platestock, improved (lower) dust properties, improved smoothness for llexo, gravure, and offset printing, or a combination thereof.

In another embodiment, a method is provided, which includes contacting, on a papermaking achine:

a dried web including cellulosic fibers; and

the size press composition;

to form a sized web.

In embodiments herein, contacting the dried web and the size press composition may be carried out at a size press selected from the group including rod-metered size press, puddle size press, blade-metered size press, curtain coaler size press, vertical size press, horizontal size press, metering size press, gated roll metering size press, doctor blade metering size press, and a combination thereof.

In embodiments herein, contacting the dried web and the size press composition may be carried out carried out at a rod-metered size press.

In embodiments herein, the base coat may he applied to one or both side of the sized web, to form a coated paper or paperboard.

In embodiments herein, the base coat formulation may include a standard pigment containing coating designed for flexo and offset printing. For example, the base coat may include 10 to 20 pints latex binder and 100 parts pigment; a barrier coating containing a higher proportion of binder, or a specialty coating containing onl latex, The binder is not particularly limiting, Mon-limiting examples of the binder include RAP 8l0^iM by Trinseo (styrene acrylate), Cϋ 31.669 SB™ latex by Trinseo (styrene butadiene), XU 31695 ^{f M} by Trinseo (styrene acrylonitrile), Po!yco 3960™ by Dow (poly vinyl acetate), Polyco 2160 IPA™ by Dow (poly vinyl acetate), Bypod 1001 ^iM by Dow (polyethylene emulsion), Hypod 9105 ^IM by Dow

(polyethylene emulsion), or a combination thereof. Similarly, the pigment is not particularly limi ting. Non-limiting examples of pigment include HC (Hydrocarb) 90™ by Omya (ground calcium carbonate), HC (Hydrocarb) 60™ by O ya (ground calcium carbonate), Hydrafiiie 90W^m by KaMin (clay), and combinations thereof, in some embodiments, the pigment is HC (Hydrocarb) 60™ by Omya (ground calcium carbonate).

In embodiments herein, the pigment in the base coat formulation may include one or more of clay and calcium carbonate.

In embodiments herein, the term, "‘top" is used merely for convenience and is not intended to imply a particular direction.

In embodiments herein, a top coat may be applied to the base coat on one or both skies of the sized web, to form a coated paper or paperboard.

I embodiments herein, the top coat formulation may include a standard pigment containing coating designed for flexo and offset printing. For example, the top coat formulation may include 10 to 20 parts latex binder and 100 parts pigment ; a barrier coating containing a higher proportion of binder; or a specialty coating containing only latex, The hinder is not particularly limiting. Non-limiting examples of the binder include RAP SI 0^iM by Trinseo (styrene acrylate), XU 31669 S B^fM latex by Trinseo (styrene butadiene), XTJ 31695 ^JM by Trinseo (styrene acrylonitrile), Polyco 3960 ^m by Dow (poly vinyl acetate), Polyco 21601PA ^m by Dow (poly vinyl acetate), Hypod 1001 ^1M by Dow (polyethylene emulsion), Hypod 9105 ^{ by Dow (polyethylene emulsion), or a combination thereof. Similarly, the pigment is not particularly limiting. Non-limiting examples of pigment include HC (Hydrocarb) 90™ by Omya (ground calcium carbonate), HC (Hydrocarb) 60 ^fM by Omya (ground calcium carbonate),

Hydrafine 90W™ by KaMin (clay), and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the pigment is HC (Hydrocarb) 90 ^iM by Omya (ground calcium carbonate), Hydrafine 90W™ by KaMin (clay), or a combination thereof.

In embodiments herein, the pigment in the top coat formulation may include one or more of clay and calcium carbonate,

in embodiments herein, one or more of drying, coating, or calendaring the sized web, or a combination of two or more thereof may be further carded out.

EXAMPLES The e amples herein are provided for illustration only and are not intended to he limiting unless otherwise specified.

Example 1

Coated paper substrates were made on the Trinseo pilot eoater in Midland, MI (Table 1). The base paperboard was a 14 point uncoated cupstock having no ske press treatment. Surface size compositions (as shown in Table 1 below) were applied to both sides of this uncoated cupstock at the rate of 1300 feet per minute (fpm) using a rod metered ske press and dried using an infrared (]R) dryer, followed by a forced air oven. Comparative Samples S-l and S-2 had a control surface size composition applied, consisting of a 6% sol ids solution of PG-270 ethylated corn starch, which is a size press formulation that is similar to many commercial paperboards currently available. Exemplary Samples S~3 and S~4 had a pigmented size press composition applied in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Subsequently, all four Samples were coated on one side of the paperboard with a base coat and then a top coat. The base coats were applied using a blade coaler in the stiff blade mode, while the top coats were applied using a blade eoater in the bent blade mode. Both coatings were dried after coating using an infrared (1R) dryer, followed by a forced air oven. The coating formulations for the base coats and the top coats are listed in Table 1.

The components, layers, and properties of these coated paper substrates are shown in Table 1 below:

’In lbs/3msf

² Amounts (estimated) in dry parts

From fngredioR, PG 270 ethylated corn starch

"From Omya, Hydrocarb 90 GCC

sFrom Solenis, Scripset 745 SMA

⁶From Aldrich, Calcium Chloride

'^'Fro Omya, Hydrocarb 60 GCC

⁸From Trinseo, XXJ31695, which is a styrene-acrylic-acTyloiiitiile copolymer latex

⁹From Trinseo, R.AP830, which is a styrene-acrylic copolymer latex.

u From Dow, Accumer 9300

From Omya, Rheocarb 121

i²Prom Kemira, FennoFlow L229

i³Prom Ra iii, Bydrafine 90 cla

^,4Fton) Qmnova, SanKote 455 calcium stearate

The four coated paperboard samples were then tested for Hagerty Permeability and Parker Print Surf, Hagerty Permeability is a measure of the porosity of the coated paperboard, measuring the time in seconds for a 10 cubic centimeter volume of air to pass through the sample at a fixed pressure. The higher the number, the longer time it takes the air to pass through the coate paperboard, and hence the less porous the paperboard, Parker Print Surf is a measure of the surface roughness over a small area of the sample surface. The higher the number, the rougher the sample. Samples were also tested for flexo print mottle evaluation. The higher the number, the more mottle can be detected on the printed paperboard sample. The results of these tests are listed in Table 1.

From the coating compositions listed in Table L it should foe noted that Samples $-1 and S-3 have the same base coat and top coat coating compositions, hot differ that Comparative .Sample S-l has a size press composition consisting of starch only, and Exemplary Sample S-3 has a size press formulation in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The results in Table 1 show that Exemplar Sample S-3 has a higher Hagerty Permeability value than Comparative Sample S-l, which indicates that Exemplary Sample S-3 is less porous than Comparative Sample S-l. Exemplary Sample S-3 also has a significantly smoother surface than Comparative Sample S-L as indicated by the lower value for Parker Print Surf, as well as the lower llexo print mottle. These observations also hold true for Samples S-2 (Comparative) and S~4 (Exemplary), which have the same coating formulations but different size press

compositions. The coating formulations between S-l and S-3 and S-2 and $-4 differ only in the latex: binder used.

Example 2

Coated paper substrates were made on the Trinseo pilot coaler in Midland, MI (Table 2). The base paperboard was a 14 point uncoated cupstock having no size press treatment. Surface size compositions (as shown in Table 2 below) were applied to both sides of this uncoated cupstoek at the rate of 1300 feet per minute (fpm) using a rod metered size press and dried using an infrared (JR) dryer, followed by a forced air oven. Comparative Samples S-5 and S~9 had a control surface size composition applied, consisting of a 6% solids solution of PG-270 ethylated corn starch, which is a size press formulation that is similar to many commercial paperboards currently available. Exemplary Samples S-6, S-7, S-S, S-10, S-1. L and S-12 had a pigmented size press composition applied in accordance with: an embodiment of the present invention:. Subsequently, all eight samples were coated on one side of the paperboard with a base coat and then a top coat. The base coats were applied using a blade coaler in the stiff blade mode, while the top coats were applied using a blade coaler In the bent blade mode. Both coatings were dried after coating using an infrared (1R) dryer, followed by a forced air oven. The coating formulations for the base coats and the top coats are listed in Table 2.

The components, layers, and propertie of these coated paper substrates are shown in

’In lbs/3msf

² Amounts (estimated) in dry parts

¾¥om Ingtedicm, PG 270, ethylated com stanch

⁴From Ingredient, PilmCote 370, com starch

¾dm aMin, Hydrafiae 90W, clay

⁶From So!enis, IP Size 2000, AKD

'From Solenis, Scripset 745, SMA

sFrom Gray a, Hydroearb 60 GCC

⁹From Trinseo, XU31669, styrene-butadiene copolymer latex

uFrom Trinseo, RAPS 10, styrene-acrylic copolymer latex

nFrom Dow, Accumer 9300

i²Prom Kemira, FennoFlow L229

¹³ Prom Oroya, Hydroearb 90, GCC

i⁴From Berchem, Berchem 4136

The eight coated paperboard samples were then tested for Hagerty Permeability and Hot Cora Oil holdout, Hagerty Permeability is a measure of the porosity of the coated paperboard, measuring the time in seconds for a 10 cubic centimeter volume of air to pass through the sample at a fixed pressure. The higher the number, the longer time it takes the air to pass through the coated paperboard, and hence the less porous the paperboard- The Hot Corn Oil test is conducted by placing a measured amount of corn oil at 60°C onto the paperboard sample. Once the paper has cooled down to room temperature, the excess corn oil is removed, and the oil- containing paperboard is left at room temperature for 24 hoars. The Y- value brightness of the paperboard is then measured, and the change in Y- value brightness before and after the test is reported. The higher number, the mote corn oil was absorbed by the paperboard sample. The aforementioned Hot Corn Oil test is described in more detail in the patent application W02009142739A1 in relevant part as follows: Place samples of the coated base paper (8,3 cm by 8 3 cm) with the coated side down and against a Leneta Scrub Chart Make an initial Y-value reading of the coated base paper from the middle of the sample using a spectrophotometer.

Then, secure the samples of the coated base paper to a sheet of clean Plexiglas® with the coated side up, Use a circle template to draw a 5.08 cm diameter circle around the middle of the coated base paper samples. Use a hot glue gun to deposit a bead of glue along the circle to create a "glue dam " Allow the glue dam to cool and harden for a minimum of 15 minutes at room temperature.. Remove 60^®C pre-heated corn oil from an oven set at 60°C. Apply one (1) mi of the hot corn oil to the coated base paper in the area defined by the glue dam. The oil will spread to cover the circle. Place the oil-covered samples of the coated base papers into the oven set at 60°C, After a scheduled time interval, remove the samples of the coated base papers from the oven and placed on a lab bench to cool to room temperature. Once the samples are at room temperature, wipe the excess oil off the surface of the samples of the coated base paper,· Remo ve the samples of the coate base paper from the Plexiglas® and place with the surface treated with the com oil (oil-stain side) down on a plain black Leneta Chart. Read the Y-value of the middle of the square using the spectrophotometer. The results of these tests are listed in Table 2

Pro the coating compositions listed in Table 2, it should be noted that samples S-5 through $-8 have the same base coat an top coat coating compositions, but differ in that Comparative sample S-5 has a size press composition consisting of starch only, and Exemplary samples S-6 through S-8 have a size press formulation in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention The results in Table 2 show that Exemplary samples S-6 through S-8 have a higher Hagerty Permeability value than Comparative sample S-5, which indicates that

Exemplary samples S-6 through S-8 are less porous than Comparative sample S-5. Exemplary Samples S-6 through S-8 also have a better oil holdout (less hot corn oil absorbed) than

Comparative sample S-5, This is confirmation of the lower porosity of Exemplary samples S-6 through S-8, as seen in the flagerty Permeability test. These observations also hold true for Samples S-9 through S-12, which have the same coating formulations but different size press compositions. The coating formulations between sample S-5 through S-8 and samples S-9 through S-12 differ only in the latex binder used in the base coat. All documents, patents, journal articles and other materi ls cited in the present

application are hereby incorporated by reference, the same as if set forth at length.

Although the present invention has been folly described in conjunction with several embodiments thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to he understood that various changes and modifications may be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications are to be understood as included within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims, unless they depart therefrom.

Claims

CLAIMS ί . A size press composition for paper or paperboard, comprising:

binder;

pigment;

synthetic surface sizing agent; and

water;

wherein the binder and pigment are present in a binder : pigment weight ratio of about 10:1 to about |;10; and

wherein the synthetic surface sizing is present in a synthetic surface sizing agent : (binder and pigment) weight ratio of about 2: 100 to about 10: 100.

2. The size press composition of claim 1, wherein the binder comprises one or more of natural product, casein, soy protein, fatty add salts and copolymers, water soluble polymer, water soluble starch co-binder, polyvinyl alcohol, poly acrylic acid, poly acrylic acid salt, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyethylene oxide, polymer emulsion, acrylate, styrene acrylate, styrene butadiene, styrene acrylonitrile, polyurethane, polyvinyl acetate, polyethylene emulsion, polyethylene (PE) polymers; polyethylene terephihalate (PET) polymers; polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) polymers; polylactic add (PLA) polymers; polyglycolic add

(PGA) polymers; polyvinyl acetate polymers; waxes; polyurethane polymers; or epoxy resins, starch, high-arnylose corn starch, waxy corn starch, tapioca starch, cationic starch, ethylate starch, oxidized starch, com starch, potato starch, rice starch, dent com starch, waxy starch, modified starch, FiUnKote by Ingredion, FilniKote 370™ by Ingredion (modified starch), Aquahloe™ by Atpasol, Aquahloe 403^1M by Aquasol (starch). Flex Starch™ by Tate and Lyle,Gear-Cote 640™ by Tate and Lyle (waxy starch), PG 270™ by Ingredion (ethylated starch), RAP MO™ by Trinseo (styrene acrylate), XU 31669 SB™ latex fey Trinseo (styrene butadiene), XU 31695 ^iM by Trinseo (styrene acrylonitrile), Po!yeo 3960™ by Dow (poly vinyl acetate), Polyeo 2160 1PA™ by Dow (poly vinyl acetate), binder, Hypod 1001 ^tM by Dow (polyethylene emulsion), Hypod 9105™ by Dow (polyethylene emulsion), or a combination thereof.

3, The size press composition of claim 1 , wherein the binder comprises one or more natural products such as casein, soy protein, and fatty add salts an copolymers, water soluble polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol, poly acrylic acid and salts, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyethylene oxide, etc, and polymer emulsions such as acrylates, styrene acrylates, styrene butadienes, polyurethanes, polyvinyl acetates, polyethylene (PE) polymers; polyethylene ierephthalate (PET) polymers; pol hydroxyalkanoate (PHA) polymers; polylactic aci (PLA) polymers; polyglycolic acid (PGA) polymers; polyvinyl acetate polymers; waxes; polyurethane polymers; or epoxy resins, and their copolymers and derivatives.

4, The size press composition of claim 1, wherein the binder comprises a starch selected fro the group consisting of hig ~amy lose com starch, waxy corn starch, tapioca starch, cationic starch, ethylated starch, oxidized starch, corn starch, potato starch, rice starch, dent corn starch, waxy starch, modified starch, FilmKote™ by Ingredion, FilmKote 370™ by ingredion (modified starch), Aquabioe™ by Aquasol, Aquabioe 403™ by Aquasol (starch). Flex Starch™ by Tate and Lyle, Clear-Cote 640™ by Tate and Lyle (waxy starch), PG 270™ by ingredion (ethylated starch), and a combination thereof,

5 The ske press composition of claim L wherei the binder comprises a water- soluble polymer binder selected front the group consisting of starch binders, cel!ulosic binders, polyvinyl alcohol binders, polyacrylic acid binders, poiymethacryiic acid binders,

polyvinylamrne binders, polyacr lamide binders, polyether binders, sulfonated polystyrene binders, carboxyiated polystyrene binders, and a combination thereof

6, The size press composition of claim 5, wherein the water-soluble polymer binder is a starch binder.

7, The ske press composition of claim I , wherein the binder comprises a polymer latex binder selected from the group consisting of styrene butadiene rubber latexes, acrylic polymer latexes, polyvinyl acetate latexes, styrene acrylic copolymer latexes, polyurethane latexes, starch/acrylic copolymer latexes, starch/styrene acrylic copolymer latexes, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOM)/styrcne acrylic copolymer latexes, PVOH/acrylic copolymer latexes, and a combination thereof.

8. The size press composition of claim 7, wherein the polymer latex binder is a styrene-acrylic latex binder.

9. The size press composition of claim 1, wherein the binder i ethylated starch.

10. The size press composition of claim 1, wherei the pigmen t is selected from the group consisting of ground calcium carbonate (GCC), precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC), clay, kaolin clay, talc, mica, calcium sulfate, absorbent plastic pigment particles, calcined day pigment particles, titanium dioxide pigment particles, barium sulfate pigment particles, silica pigment particles, zeolite pigment particles, fumed silica pigment particles, alumina pigment particles, bentonite clay pigment particles, MO (Eydrocarb) 90^lM by Omya (ground calciu carbonate), HC (Hydrocarh) 60™ by Omya (ground calcium carbonate}, Hydrafine 90W™ by KaMin (clay), and a mixture thereof

11. The size press composition of claim 1. wherein the pigment is ground calcium carbonate (GCC),

12. The size press composition of claim 1, wherein the synthetic surface sizing agent is selected from the group consisting of styrene maleic anhydride {SMA), alkyl ketene dimer (AKD), AKD (IP Size 2000)™ by Solenis (alkyl ketene dimer), Scripset 745™ by Solenis (styrene maleic anhydride), styrene acrylic emulsion (SAE), polymer emulsions with a surface energy of 50 dynes or less alter drying, and a combination thereof.

13 , The size press composition of claim 1, wherein the synthetic surface sizing agent is styrene maleic anhydride (SMA),

14. The size press composition of claim 1, wherein the synthetic surface sizing agent is Scripset™.

15. The size press composition of claim 1, further comprising one or more water soluble salt.

16 The size press composition of claim 15, wherein the water soluble salt is one or more of a multivalent cationic metal salt, an inorganic salt, an organic salt, or a combination thereof.

17. The size press composition of claim 15_» wherein the water soluble salt is one or more multivalent cationic metal salt, inorganic salt, organic salt, or combination thereof selected from the group consisting of calcium chloride, calcium acetate, calcium magnesium acetate, calcium nitrate, calcium hydroxide, magnesium chloride, magnesium sulfate, magnesium nitrate, magnesium sulfate, aluminum chloride, aluminum nitrate, aluminum chlorohydfate, aluminum sulfate, sodium aluminu sulfate, vanadiu chloride, and a combination thereof,

18. The size press composition of claim 15, wherein the water soluble salt is calcium chloride.

19. The size press composition of claim 15, wherein the water soluble salt is a metal drying salt, multivalent metal drying salt, monovalent metal drying salt, or a combination thereof.

20. The size press composition of claim 19, wherein the multivalent metal drying salt is selected from the group consisting of calcium chloride, calcium acetate, calcium hydroxide, calcium nitrate, calcium sulfate, calcium sulfite, magnesium chloride, magnesium acetate, magnesium nitrate, magnesium sulfate, magnesium sulfite, aluminum chloride, aluminum nitrate, aluminum sulfate, aluminum ehlorohydrate, sodium aluminu sulfate, vanadium chloride, and a combination thereof.

21. The size press composition of clai 19, wherein the monovalent metal drying salt is selected from the group consisting of sodium chloride, sodium acetate, sodium carbonate, sodium icarbonate, sodium hydroxide, sodium silicates, sodium sulfate, sodium sulfite, sodium nitrate, sodium bromide, potassium chloride, potassium acetate, potassium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, potassium hydroxide, potassium silicates, potassium sulfate, potassium sulfite, potassiu nitrate, potassium bromide, lithium chloride, lithium acetate, lithium carbonate, lithium bicarbonate, lithium hydroxide, lithium silicates, lithium sulfate, lithium sulfite, lithium nitrate, lithiu bromide,, or a combination thereof.

22. The size press composition of claim 15, wherein the water soluble salt is present in an amount of 3 to 30 parts by weight, based on the weight of the composition.

23. The size press composition of claim 15, wherein the water soluble salt Is present in an amount of 5 to 20 parts by weight, based on the weight of the composition.

24. The size press composition of claim 15, wherein the water soluble salt is present in an amount such that the metal anion of the water soluble salt has the same equivalen weight as the calcium anion based on 3 to 30 parts by weight of calcium chloride, based on the weight of the composition.

25. The size press composition of claim 1 , which further comprises a % solids of about. 10-30% solids by weight.

26. The size press composition of claim 1, which further comprises a % solids of about 20-30% solids by weight

27. The size press composition of claim 1, wherein the binder and pigment are present in a binder ; pigment weight ratio of about 4:1 to about 1 :1 ,

28. The size press composition of claim 1 , wherein the synthetic surface sizing is present in a synthetic surface sizing agent ; (binder and pigment) weight ratio of about 3:100 to about 6; 100.

29. A sized web, for paper or paperboard, comprising:

a dried web comprising ceilulosic fibers; and

the size press composition of claim 1 on one or both sides of the dried web.

30. A coaled or uncoated paper or paperboard, comprising the sized web of claim 29.

31. A paper or paperboard, comprising:

a sized web, comprising:

a dried web comprising ceilulosic fibers; and

binder;

pigment;

synthetic surface sizing age.nl; and

substantially no water;

wherein the synthetic surface sizing is present in a synthetic surface sizing agent : (binder and pigment) weight ratio of about 2:100 to about 10:100,

32. The paper or paperboar of claim 31 , which is uncoated

33. The paper or paperboard of claim 31_* further comprising one or more coatings in contact with one or both sides of the sized web.

34. The paper or paperboard of claim 33, wherein the one or more coatings are CI S (coated on one side), C2S (coated on both sides), coated CIS, or coated C2S,

35. The paper or paperboard of claim 31 , further comprising a base coat in contact with one or both sides of the sized web.

36. The paper or paperboard of el aim 35 , wherein the base coat is a C 1 S or C2 S coating in contact with sized web,

37, The paper or paperboard of clai 35, further comprising a top coat in contact with the base coat on one or both sides of the sized web.

38. The paper or paperboard of claim 37, wherein the top coat is a Cl S or C2S coating.

39. The paper or paperboard of claim 31 , having a basis weight of from about 8 pi to about 30 pi

40. The paper or paperboard of claim 31 , having a basis weight of from about 10 pt to about 24 pt.

41. An article, comprising the paper or paperboard of claim 31.

42. The article of claim 4 I, which is suitable for one or more of mkjei, flexo, gravure_·, or offset printing, or a combination of two or more thereof.

43. The article of claim 41, which Is selected from the group consisting of packaging, food service item, cup, plate, and a combination thereof.

44. The article of claim 41 , which has improved barrier properties, improved smoothness for flexo, gravure, and offset printing, or a combination thereof.

45. A method, comprising contacting, on a papermaking machine;

a dried web comprising cellulosic fibers; and

the size press composition of claim 1;

to form a sized web.

46. The met.hod of claim 45, w.herein the contacting is ca.rried ou.t at a size

selected from the group consisting of rod-metered size press, puddl size press, blade-metered size press, curtain coater size press, vertical size press, horizontal size press, metering size press, gated roil metering size press, doctor blade metering size press, and a combination thereof^'.

47 The method of claim 45, wherein the contacting is earned out at a rod-metered size press,

48 The method of claim 45, further comprising applying a base coat to one or both sides of the sized web, to form a coated paper or paperboard.

49. The method of claim 48, wherein the base coat is appl ied from a base coat formulation comprising a standard pigment containing coating designed for flexo and offset printing, comprised of 10 to 20 parts latex binder and 100 parts pigment; a barrier coating containing a higher proportion of binder; or a specialty coating containing only latex.

50. The method of claim 49, wherein the pigment comprises one or more of clay and calcium carbonate.

51. The method of clai 48, further comprising applying a top coat to the base coat on one or both sides of the sized web, to form a coated paper or paperboard.

52. The method of claim 1 , wherein the top coat is applied fro a top coat formulation comprising a standard pigment containing coating designed for flexo and offset printing, comprised of 10 to 20 parts latex binder and 100 parts pigment; a barrier coating containing a higher proportion of binder; or a specialty coating containing only latex.

53. The method of claim 52, wherein the pigment comprises one or more of clay and calcium carbonate.

54. The method of claim 45, further com prising one or more of drying, coating, orcalendaring the sized web, or a combination of two or more thereof.