Blocking is undesired adhesion between two surfaces when subjected to pressure and temperature constraints. Blocking between two coated paperboards in contact with each other may be caused by inter-diffusion, adsorption, or electrostatic forces occurring between the respective coating surfaces. These interactions are influenced by factors such as the temperature, pressure, surface roughness, and surface energy. Blocking potentially can be reduced by adjusting these factors, or by using antiblocking additives such as talc, amorphous silica, fatty acid amides, or polymeric waxes. We developed a method of quantifying blocking using a rheometer. Coated surfaces were put in contact with each other with controlled pressure and temperature for a definite period. We then measured the work necessary to pull the two surfaces apart. This was a reproducible way to accurately quantify blocking. The method was applied to determine the effect external factors have on the blocking tendency of coated paperboards, i.e., antiblocking additive concentration, film thickness, temperature, and humidity.
