Effect of Polyether Monoamine Structure on Pigment Dispersant Properties
In this study, the uses of polyether amines (PEAs) as dispersants for carbon black, as well as their physico-chemical properties, were studied systematically. A series of polyether amines was prepared by varying the molecular weight and the ethylene oxide/propylene oxide ratio. By understanding the effect of each portion of the molecule on the physical properties and performance, new dispersants can be developed. A variety of different techniques have been used in this study to characterize these properties. Equilibrium surface tension and solution depletion methods were used to determine the adsorptions at the air-water interface and carbon black-water interface, respectively. Dynamic interfacial tension measurements have been made using mineral oil as a dispersed phase. Contact angles of water on carbon black dispersions were measured to provide information about wettability. The performance of these materials in a carbon black ink formulation, including rheology, stability and color transfer efficiency, was also studied.