Energy absorption properties of multi-layered corrugated paperboard in various ambient humidities

This paper develops a mathematical model to depict the energy absorption properties of multi-layered corrugated paperboard (MLCP) in various ambient humidities. It is a piecewise function to model the energy absorptions corresponding to three deformation stages of MLCP (elastic stage, plateau stage and densification stage) separately. Simple formulas are derived for each stage which relating the energy absorption capacity of MLCP to the thickness-to-flute pitch ratio (tc/λtc/λ) of corrugated-core cell, the mechanical properties of corrugated medium tested under a controlled atmosphere [23 °C and 50% relative humidity (RH)], and the RH. The theoretical energy absorption curves are then compared with experimental ones and good agreements are achieved for MLCP with wide range ratios of tc/λtc/λ in various ambient humidities. Results of this research can be applied in the optimum design and material selection of cushioning packaging with multi-layered corrugated paperboard.

Graphical abstractThis paper develops a mathematical model to depict the energy absorption properties of multi-layered corrugated paperboard (MLCP) in various ambient humidities. The theoretical energy absorption curves are compared with experimental ones and good agreements are achieved. The results can be applied in the optimum design and material selection of cushioning packaging with multi-layered corrugated paperboard.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► A model is developed to predict the energy absorption of MLCP. ► Theoretical energy absorption curves are compared with experiments. ► Energy absorption increases with thickness-to-flute pitch ratio.