Alkyl ketene dimer for Paper Sizing | High-Performance Solutions
As a leading AKD wax supplier, Amazon Chemicals empowers global paper mills to achieve water resistance, printability, and cost efficiency across packaging, printing, and specialty grades. ISO 9001 certified since 2015.
Azakd® Series – Premium AKD Sizing Agent for Alkaline Papermaking
AKD sizing agent (Alkyl Ketene Dimer) is a widely used neutral sizing agent for paper, designed to enhance water resistance in various paper grades. As a reactive AKD wax emulsion, it chemically bonds with cellulose fibers in the paper, creating a hydrophobic layer that prevents water penetration and improves overall paper quality.
The Azakd® Series offers a full range of solid content options to meet different application needs in neutral or alkaline papermaking systems.
How AKD Improves Water Resistance in Paper
The core mechanism behind AKD’s sizing effect lies in its esterification reaction. The lactone ring in the AKD molecule reacts with the hydroxyl groups (-OH) of cellulose fibers, forming β-keto ester bonds. This process fixes long-chain alkyl groups on the fiber surface, greatly improving the sheet’s hydrophobicity and printability.
Comparison: AKD vs Rosin vs ASA
| Property | AKD Sizing Agent | ASA Sizing Agent | Rosin Sizing Agent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suitable pH range | 7.0-8.5 (neutral/alkaline) | 6.5-8.0 | 4.5-6.0 (acidic) |
| Reaction Type | Covalent bonding (esterification) | Anhydride reaction | Electrostatic adsorption |
| Water Resistance | Excellent & durable | Moderate | Moderate |
| Storage Stability | Stable emulsion (3-6 months) | Unstable, short shelf life | Stable |
| Machine Corrosion Risk | Low | Low | High |
Compared to ASA (Alkenyl Succinic Anhydride) and traditional rosin sizing agents, AKD for paper industry offers superior thermal and chemical stability, better compatibility with alkaline fillers, and reduced system corrosion.
Advantages of AKD Wax Emulsion for Papermaking
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Excellent sizing effect at neutral to alkaline pH
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Improves paper water resistance and aging performance
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Compatible with PCC, GCC, and high-speed paper machines
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Less foam formation and system corrosion compared to acidic sizing
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Enables the use of recycled fibers and improves machine runnability
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Environmentally friendly with reduced effluent loading
Trusted in Demanding Applications
Food Packaging Paper
Grease resistant, formaldehyde-free
Premium Art Paper
Enhanced ink holdout for gallery-grade prints
Medical & Hygiene Paper
Good mechanical properties & Low Particulate
