Preparation and dispersion properties of polyacrylate copolymer dispersant

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to synthesize a polyacrylate-based dispersant with a determined target molecular weight for oily systems and to determine the optimal dispersant level and monomer ratio of the dispersant. Design/methodology/approach The dispersant was synthesized by conventional radical polymerization using methacrylic acid, butyl acrylate and dimethylamino ethyl methacrylate as the monomer. It was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic hydrogen spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography and thermogravimetric analysis. The dispersant was used to disperse TiO 2 , and the performance of the dispersant was evaluated by measuring the viscosity, particle size and dispersive force of the slurry. Findings The dispersant exhibited high thermal stability and was successfully anchored to the surface of the TiO 2 pigment. When used to disperse a TiO 2 slurry, it effectively made the TiO 2 slurry more fluid, indicating its strong viscosity-reducing properties. The viscosity, particle sizes and dispersion capabilities of the TiO 2 slurry were found to vary depending on the contents and monomer ratios of the dispersant. Research limitations/implications P(MAA-BA-DM) dispersant increases the wettability of TiO 2 only in oily solvents but not in aqueous solvents. Practical implications P(MAA-BA-DM) dispersant makes it easier to disperse TiO 2 pigments in oily solvents, increasing the amount of pigment in the solvent and making the preparation of highly pigmented pastes easier. Originality/value A dispersant containing suitable carboxyl and tertiary amine groups was initially synthesized to disperse TiO 2 in an oily system. The findings are anticipated to be used in the formulation of pigment concentrates, industrial coatings and other solvent-based coatings.