The main components of dispersants usually include the following four categories, and their functions and application examples are as follows:
1. Surfactant
As the core component, its amphiphilic structure (hydrophilic group + hydrophobic group) can reduce the surface or interfacial tension of the liquid, so that solid particles or droplets are evenly dispersed. For example, anionic (sodium dodecyl sulfate), cationic (trimethyl stearamide chloride), non-ionic (polyoxyethylene alkylphenol ether), etc.
2. Polymer
Provide steric hindrance to prevent particle aggregation, such as polyacrylate, polyethylene wax, acrylamide copolymer (such as trade name DA dispersant), etc.
3. Inorganic salt
Such as silicate (water glass), phosphate (sodium tripolyphosphate), etc., used to adjust solubility and stability, or enhance charge density.
4. Solvent
As a carrier to dissolve other components, water-based dispersants are mainly water-based, while oil-based dispersants use organic solvents such as alcohols and ketones.
Note: Actual dispersants are mostly compound ingredients. For example, chemical dispersants are composed of surfactants, solvents and a small amount of additives.