Mini-Encyclopedia of Papermaking Wet-End Chemistry
Part Two: Definitions and Concepts

Formation

The word "formation" can mean either a paper characteristic or a process. As a paper characteristic, the word is usually a synonym for "relative uniformity over a scale of a few centimeters." In the sense of process, the word is a synonym for "forming," the assembly of fibers into a sheet as water is removed. The formation uniformity of a sheet of paper can be judged by viewing it with light from the back. The appearance of poor formation is usually related to fiber flocs persisting in the furnish through the process of form. Streakiness due to wake effects also contributes to poor formation.

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This page is maintained by Martin hubbe, Associate Professor of Wood and Paper Science, NC State University, m_hubbe@ncsu.edu .