A Review on the Mechanism of Pigment Dispersion

In the quest of ensuring successful pigment dispersion, additives are used to aid dispersion and stabilization of pigment particles through attraction forces of various chemical nature including van der waals and "liquid bridge" forces as well as anchor groups with high affinity for pigment surface. On the other hand, dispersion efficiency is significantly dependent on the effectiveness of various dispersion equipment and their energy transfer, dispersion force and effectiveness. The common denominator for all this equipment are that; dispersion is achieved by shearing forces produced by the application of high positive and negative attrition. This article reviews and explores the nature and the significance of the various methods and forces in pigment dispersion and the various stabilization mechanisms adopted in producing stably fine pigment particles, dispersion application as well as future prospects.