Inorganic vs Organic Dispersants: Core Differences and Industrial Applications

Inorganic and organic dispersants are essential for stabilizing particle suspensions in industrial processes. Their core differences lie in action mechanisms, composition, and application scenarios.

1. Mechanism Contrast

Inorganic Dispersants: Ionic electrolytes (e.g., sodium hexametaphosphate, sodium tripolyphosphate) dissociate in water to form ions that adsorb onto particle surfaces. This creates an electric double layer, increasing zeta potential and generating electrostatic repulsion. For example, in ceramic glazes, sodium hexametaphosphate enhances particle negativity via anion adsorption, while Na⁺ thickens the double layer.

Organic Dispersants: Polymer surfactants (e.g., polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylate) rely on steric hindrance or electrostatic-steric synergy. Ether-based polycarboxylates (e.g., FS10) use a charged backbone for particle adsorption and side chains to form solvation layers, reducing interparticle friction.

2. Structural Differences

3. Selection Guidelines & Case Study

Aqueous Systems: Inorganic pigments (e.g., TiO₂) prefer polyphosphates; organic pigments require polyacrylates for charge-compatibility balance.

Non-Aqueous Systems: Fatty acid PEG esters (organic) enhance dispersion of talc/CaCO₃ in PVC.

Composite Case: A diatomite-PVA composite dispersant (inorganic base + organic binder) prevents polymer droplet coalescence in suspension polymerization via dual mechanical isolation and protective film formation.

Success Story: A building materials manufacturer used Chemi Tech's organic dispersant KMK-200 (PVA derivative) for porous PVC. Compared to gelatin-based agents, particle size distribution dispersion reduced by 40%, and flowability increased by 25%.

Selecting dispersants requires evaluating particle properties, system compatibility, and performance needs. Chemi Tech delivers customized solutions for coatings, plastics, and beyond.