The traditional approach of R&D is time consuming and expensive; a systematic experimental program that tests variations in the formulation, identifying those that produce the best results. Data from past experiments is used to design these programs, identifying relationships between properties and formulation features to suggest what changes should be tried. But the available data is usually sparse.1-4
Coatings and ink properties like color, rheological behavior, adherence to surfaces, and response to light depend on subtle changes in the nature, proportions, and processing of ingredients. The challenge of understanding these subtleties is similar for other formulated products and plastics. Manufacturers want to control properties, not only to make new products, but also to re-formulate in response to market pressures. For example, replacing an ingredient that has become expensive or that is subject to new environmental regulations.