A MODEL FOR THE OPTICAL-PROPERTIES OF PAPER .1. THE THEORY

When an analysis of the optical properties of paper is needed, the most frequently used theory is the Kubelka-Munk theory. However, it fails to be useful when a separate analysis of the effects of the optical properties of a single particle and of the structure of the sheet is required. On the other hand, due to the fact that paper is composed of close-packed irregular particles, the more rigorous scattering theories are difficult to apply. In this study, however, by making certain assumptions a discrete model is derived from radiative transfer theory. Furthermore, the properties of the model are examined based on theoretical considerations. The study shows that the model has merits, but the error sources are also discussed.