Pilotek S., Tabellion F., Schär S., Steingröver K.
Buhler PARTEC GmbH, DE
Keywords: dispersion, mechanochemical, nanoparticle, surface modification
Inorganic nanoparticles are used in many different branches: e.g. display technology, consumer goods, coatings, plastics, cosmetics, and paper industry use nanoparticles as major components or functional additives. In most applications, the particles are needed in a well-dispersed state at least in one processing step. Often the product properties are determined by the quality of the dispersion. Consequently, dispersing nanoparticles is an enabling step for using nanoparticles in real-world products. We produce dispersions of inorganic nanoparticles in water, organic solvents, and resins by combining chemical and mechanical competences. The requirements of different applications with respect to functionality, reactivity, viscosity, solid content, solvents, pH value, etc. are taken into account. For each application, the chemistry of the particle surface is carefully controlled and adapted to match the composition of the formulation. Depending on the state of agglomeration of the starting material, different deagglomeration machines have been employed such as mixers, rotor-stator systems, kneaders, or high-energy bead mills. The talk will highlight examples from different industries: Aqueous silica dispersions for the paper industry, catalytically active metal oxides, oxides of high refractive index for optical applications, and mineral UV absorbers for coatings and plastics.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 2, Technical Proceedings of the 2007 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 2
Published: May 20, 2007
Pages: 64 - 67
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Personal & Home Care, Food & Agriculture
Topics: Advanced Materials for Engineering Applications, Personal & Home Care, Food & Agriculture
ISBN: 1-4200-6183-6