Carbon Black Dispersant for Water-Based Inks

Carbon black dispersion stability critically impacts jetness, flow, and storage in water-based inks. A Thailand ink manufacturer faced low blackness (L＞22) and high viscosity (＞1500 mPa·s) due to poor dispersion. Switching to Chemi Tech KMT-3009 (polycarboxylic ammonium salt) delivered:

40% shorter grinding time with viscosity stabilized below 800 mPa·s at 35% pigment loading；

Enhanced jetness: L value reduced to 18.5 with 20% improved blue undertone；

Storage stability: Zero settlement in concentrates after 90 days, re-dispersibility＞95%.

Mechanism:

KMT-3009 utilizes steric hindrance to deflocculate aggregates. Its polar groups adsorb onto carbon black surfaces while hydrophobic chains form 10-20 nm protective layers, preventing re-agglomeration. The structure reduces yield stress, eliminating "gritting" during grinding.

Case Study:

Pre-mixed with deionized water (40% vs. carbon black), the agent was milled to ＜200 nm. In flexo inks, printing speed increased from 120 to 150 m/min with dot gain controlled below 15%.