DISPEX ( dispex)
DISPEX dispersing agents
DISPEX dispersing agents for water-based systems and universal pigment concentrates offer outstanding viscosity reduction, increased color intensity and exceptional hiding power.
Key features and benefits
Enhanced gloss
Suitable for low-VOC and APEO-free systems
Shorter dispersion time
Improved tone development
Avoidance of flocculation
Applications
ACE
Automotive coatings
Architectural coatings
Building materials
Construction coatings
Elastomeric roof coatings
Furniture and wood coatings
Industrial coatings
Marine coatings
Nonwovens
Overprint varnish (OPV)
Printing and packaging
Products
DISPEX AA 4040
Derivative of a family of highly effective, low viscosity dispersing agents for waterborne coating systems.
DISPEX AA 4135
Effective polymeric dispersing agent based on acrylic acid sodium salt.
DISPEX AA 4140
Derivative of a family of highly effective, low viscosity dispersing agents for waterborne coating systems.
DISPEX AA 4144
Effective pigment dispersing aid for waterborne systems, even at low dosages. As a sole dispersant it does not require any auxiliary dispersant or wetting agent or polyphosphates.
DISPEX CX 4320
Effective dispersing agent for dispersing inorganic fillers and pigments.
DISPEX Ultra FA 4404
Partially neutralized chelating agent suitable for use in the manufacture of pigment suspensions, emulsion paints, slurries, mainly inorganic pigments, viscosity reducer.
DISPEX Ultra FA 4416
Wetting and dispersing agent for aqueous coatings with high gloss, color strength and excellent rub-out properties.
DISPEX Ultra FA 4431
Wetting and dispersing agent for inorganic pigments and fillers in solvent-based, solvent-free and water-based systems.
DISPEX Ultra PA 4560
Modified polyacrylate that is pH-independent and has a wide-spread compatibility in most commonly used waterborne decorative coatings.
DISPEX Ultra PX 4290
Novel high molecular weight dispersing agent for organic and inorganic pigments in aqueous coating systems, printing inks and adhesives.
DISPEX Ultra PX 4575
Water-based dispersant made by controlled free radical polymerization (CFRP). Especially suited for the dispersion of pigments in waterborne coatings and colorants.
DISPEX Ultra PX 4585
Waterborne dispersant of the acrylate block copolymer family of products made by controlled free radical polymerization (CFRP).
We offer rheology modifiers (Rheovis) defoamers (Foamaster, FoamStar) ,wetting agents (Hydropalat) and dispersants (Dispex) for a broad range of nonwoven applications.
Dispex is an incredibly efficient polyacrylate dispersant which is used to disperse inorganic materials that are found in waterborne automotive and decorative paints, adhesives
and construction materials.
Where Dispex dispersants are used
Dispex acrylic chemistry dispersants that use an ionic repulsion mechanism to disperse the inorganic minerals that are typically used in waterborne paints, coating systems, adhesives
and construction materials – minerals such as calcium carbonate, titanium dioxide and talc.
What makes Dispex unique
Dispex polyacrylate dispersants are exceptionally efficient additives. Efficiency that delivers such a thinning effect that the lowest possible viscosity mill-base is achieved,
this means that an even higher solids mill-base is possible, thus delivering a better grind, hence, higher opacity paints and coatings.
Peak performance delivered by Dispex dispersants
Dispex polyacrylic dispersants, whether as pure polyacrylic acid (PAA) or modified with alkylacrylates to deliver higher gloss or water-resistance (hydrophobicity), offer the highest
dispersion efficiency i.e. the lowest dosage for the highest solids loading, which in turn enables the best grinding to deliver the best opacity.
DISPEX AA 4140
DISPEX AA 4140 is a derivative of a family of highly effective, low viscosity dispersing agents for water-borne coating systems. The product is especially suited for the dispersion
of inorganic pigments. DISPEX AA 4140 is a solution of a sodium salt of an acrylic polymer in water. This straw colored liquid is effective over a pH range 5-12 and up to temperatures
in excess of 100°C.
Dispex AA 4140 (formerly Dispex N40) is a derivative of a family of highly effective, low viscosity dispersing agents for water-borne coating systems.
Compared with inorganic dispersing agents, e.g. polyphosphate products, the organic polymer based Dispex® N40 provides improved storage stability of both the pigment dispersion
and the formulated paint. There is little or no adverse reaction to high temperatures or pH changes.
general dispersing agent
Chemical nature solution of an sodium salt of an acrylic polymer in water
Properties: physical form straw-colored liquid
shelf life: Although Dispex® AA 4140 is freeze-stable it should be stored at temperatures above 5 °C (41 °F) to allow easy handling.
typical properties
solvent water
density at 20 °C (68 °F) ~ 1.30 g/cm3
solid content ~ 43 %
active content ~ 40 %
viscosity at 20 °C (68 °F) ~ 400 mPa.s
pH ~ 8
Application
Dispex AA 4140 is an ideal dispersing agent for a wide range ofwater-based coatings. It can be used as supplied. The neutralizing alkali used in conjunction with the acrylic polymer
can significantly impact the properties of the final coating. The sodiumbased Dispex 4140 often contributes slightly negatively to the dry-film coating properties.
Dispex AA 4140 is effective over a pH range of 5 – 12 and up to temperatures in excess of 100 °C (212 °F). Dispex AA 4140 is based on an organic polymer and provides improved storage
stability of both pigment dispersion and formulated paint when compared with inorganic dispersing agents, e.g., polyphosphate products. There is little or no adverse reaction to high
temperatures or pH changes as indicated in the graphs below
incorporation As opposed to adding the dispersing agent to a pigment slurry, the
pigment should be added to heavily stirred water to which the dispersing agent had been added. In general, the pH of the final preparation should be in the region of 8.5 to obtain optimum
dispersing efficiency.
The optimum amount of dispersing agent required to form a stable dispersion strongly depends on the pigment’s chemical nature, the particle surface and shape. The polymer base of the latex also plays a
very important part in the stability equation. In general, significant overdosing may deteriorate the coating’s properties (e.g., water resistance) and generate an economic disadvantage.
Likewise, insufficient dispersing agent will lead to instability on storage.
When handling this product, please comply with the advice and information given in the safety data sheet and observe protective and workplace hygiene measures adequate for handling
chemicals.
As with other dispersing agents and because of the batch-to-batch variations of a specific pigment or latex type, the formulator should use 1.5 – 2.0 times the determined optimum level
of dispersing agent.
Suggested applications:
Architectural coatings
Industrial coatings
Nonwovens
Paper and paperboard
Protective coatings
DISPEX AA 4040
DISPEX AA 4040 is a derivative of a family of highly effective, low viscosity dispersing agents for waterborne coating systems. The product is especially suited for the dispersion
of inorganic pigments. DISPEX AA 4040 is a solution of an ammonium salt of an acrylic polymer in water. The neutralizing alkali used in conjunction with the acrylic polymer can
significantly impact the properties of the final coating.
Suggested applications:
Architectural coatings
Industrial coatings
Nonwovens
Paper and paperboard
Printing packaging and adhesives
Roof coatings
Dispex AA 4040 (formerly Dispex® A40) is a derivative of a family of highly effective, low viscosity dispersing agents for water-borne coating systems. The product is especially suited
for the dispersion of inorganic pigments. Dispex AA 4040 is a solution of an ammonium salt of an acrylic polymer in water. The neutralizing alkali used in conjunction with the acrylic
polymer can significantly impact the properties of the final coating.
Dispex A40 releases ammonia during the drying process and therefore has little impact on water and alkaline resistance of the dry film. Use of Dispex A40 should be limited to
pH 5-10.5 and temperatures lower than 70°C due to potential loss of volatile ammonia.
Dispex® AA 4040(old: Dispex® A40)
general dispersing agent
Dispex® AA 4040 is a derivative of a family of highly effective, lowviscosity dispersing agents for water-based coating systems, especially
suitable for the dispersion of inorganic pigments.
chemical nature solution of an ammonium salt of an acrylic polymer in water
Properties
physical form straw-colored liquid
shelf life Although Dispex® AA 4040 is freeze-stable it should be stored at
temperatures above 5 °C (41 °F) to allow easy handling.
typical properties
(no supply specification)
solvent water
density at 20 °C (68 °F) ~ 1.30 g/cm3
solid content ~ 45 %
active content ~ 40 %
viscosity at 20 °C (68 °F) ~ 400 mPa.
s
pH ~ 7.5
Application
Dispex AA 4040 preparations are ideal dispersing agents for a wide range of water-based coatings. They can be used as supplied. The neutralizing alkali used in conjunction with the
acrylic polymer can significantly impact the properties of the final coating. Dispex A40 releases ammonia during the drying process and therefore has little impact on the resistances
to water and alkali of the dry film. The use of Dispex AA 4040 should be limited to pH 5 – 10.5 and temperatures lower than 70 °C (158 °F) due to potential loss of volatile
ammonia. Dispex® AA 4040 is based on an organic polymer and provides improved storage stability of both pigment dispersion and formulated paint when compared with inorganic dispersing
agents, e.g., polyphosphate products. There is little or no adverse reaction to high temperatures or pH changes as indicated in the graphs
Incorporation: As opposed to adding the dispersing agent to a pigment slurry, the pigment should be added to heavily stirred water to which the dispersing agent had been added. In general,
the pH of the final preparation should be in the region of 8.5 to obtain optimum dispersing efficiency. The optimum amount of dispersing agent required to form a stable dispersion
strongly depends on the pigment’s chemical nature, the particle surface and shape. The polymer base of the latex also plays a very important part in the stability equation. In general,
significant overdosing may deteriorate the coating’s properties (e.g., water resistance) and generate an economic disadvantage. Likewise, insufficient dispersing agent will lead to
instability on storage.
As with other dispersing agents and because of the batch-to-batch variations of a specific pigment or latex type, the formulator should use 1.5 – 2.0 times the determined optimum level
of dispersing agent.
Efka
Highly efficient and effective dispersing agents, wetting agents and surface modifiers, defoamers and rheology modifiers for non-aqueous formulations,including eco-friendly solutions.
Dispex and Dispex Ultra : Dispersing agents with different performance properties in aqueous systems and universal pigment concentrates with outstanding viscosity reduction,
increased color intensity and hiding power.
Hydropalat
Outstanding substrate-wetting, colorantcompatibilizing, flow-control, slip-control and anti-mar agents for water-based formulations.
Foamaster and FoamStar
Defoamers and deaerators for aqueous systems, delivering a perfect balance between excellent foam suppression, micro-foam removal, high compatibility, long-term efficiency, easy
handling and environmental compliance.
Rheovis
Trusted synthetic rheology modifiers for aqueous systems, including non-ionic associative (HEUR/HMPE), anionic associative (HASE) and non-associative thickener (ASE) technologies.
Loxanol
Excellent film-forming and coalescing agents, open-time prolongers and plasticizers that focus on low-VOC and sustainable raw materials.
Tinuvin
Light stabilizers that deliver excellent protection from degradation through ultraviolet radiation coupled with compatibility in both aqueous and solvent-based systems.
Irganox
Reliable antioxidants to prevent oxidation of polymers from heat exposure that extends from production and application – e.g. processing and curing or baking at high temperatures –
to service life.
Productname DISPEX A 40/DISPEX N40
Dispersing Agent
General
Dispex A 40 and Dispex N 40 are derivatives of a family of highly effective, low viscosity dispersing agents for water-borne coating systems. The products are especially suited for the
dispersion of inorganic pigments. Compared with other dispersing agents DispexâGA40 and Dispex 40 allow formulation of high-gloss / low pigment volume concentration coatings in addition
to standard matt formulations.
Chemical Nature
Dispex N 40 is solution of a sodium salt of an acrylic copolymer in water.DispexâA40 is a solution of an ammonium salt of an acryl polymer in water. Both belong to a family of products
which are based on an acrylic copolymer. The copolymer is manufactured to a relatively narrow molecular weight distribution thus resulting in a consistent product quality with
maximum effectiveness.
Physical Properties
(typical values)
Dispex A 40 Dispex N 40
Appearance straw coloured liquid straw coloured liquid
pH = 8.0 7.5
Solid Content = 43% 45%
Active Content = 40% 40%
Viscosity at 25°C = 400 mPa.s 400 mPa.s (Brookfield 20 rpm)
Density at 20°C = 1.16 g.cm3 1.30 g.cm3
Applications
Dispex A 40 and the Dispex N 40 are ideal dispersing agents for a wide range of water-borne coatings. Dispex A 40 and Dispex N 40 can be used as supplied. The neutralising alkali
used in conjunction with the acrylic polymer can significantly impact the properties of the final coating. Dispex A 40 releases ammonia during the drying process and therefore has
little impact on water and alkaline resistance of the dry film while the sodium-based DispexâN40 often contributes slightly negatively to the coating properties. Dispex N 40 is
effective over a pH range 5-12 and up to temperatures in excess of 100°C. Use of Dispex A 40 should be limited to pH 5-10.5 and temperatures lower than 70°C due to potential loss
of volatile ammonia. Compared with inorganic dispersing agents, e.g. polyphosphate products, the organic polymer based Dispex A40 and Dispex N40 provide improved storage stability of both, the pigment dispersion and the formulated paint. There is
little or no adverse reaction to high temperatures or pH changes as indicated in the graphs below, which are examples showing the accelerated effects.
Dispex A40/Dispex N40
Incorporation of Dispex A 40 or Dispex N 40
It is recommended to add the pigment to heavily stirred water containing the dispersing agent as opposed to addition of the dispersing agent to a pigment slurry. In general, the pH of
the final preparation should be in the region of 8.5 to obtain optimum dispersing efficiency. The optimum amount of dispersing agent required to form a stable dispersion strongly
despends on the pigment´s chemical nature, the particle surface and shape. The polymer base of the latex also plays a very important part in the stability equation. In general,
significant overdosing may deteriorate the coatings properties (e.g. water resistance) and also generates an economic disadvantage. Likewise insufficient dispersing agent will lead to
instability on storage. In common with other dispersing agents, because of the batch-to-batch variations of the demands of a specific pigment or latex type it is recommended
that the formulator uses 1.5 – 2.0 times the determined optimum level of the dispersing agent. Ciba Specialty Chemicals holds a database with information on recommended dosage levels
for a variety of commonly used pigments in selected latex preparations.
Recommended concentration
0.5 – 2.0 % Dispex A40 or Dispex N40 (based on pigment weight)
Safety and Handling
Dispex A40 and Dispex N40 should be handled in accordance with good industrial practice. Detailed information is provided in the Safety Data Sheet. Although DispexA40 and DispexN40 are
freeze stable it is recommended to store the products at temperatures above 5°C to enable easy handling of the product.
Dispex AA 4040
Technical Information dispex AA 4040. (old: dispex A40). general dispersing agent dispex AA 4040 is a derivative of a family of highly effective, low- viscosity dispersing agents for
water-based coating systems, especially suitable for the dispersion of inorganic pigments. chemical nature Solution of an ammonium salt of an acrylic polymer in water . Properties physical
form straw-colored liquid shelf life Although dispex AA 4040 is freeze-stable it should be stored at temperatures above 5 C (41 F) to allow easy handling. typical properties solvent
water (no supply specification) density at 20 C (68 F) ~ g/cm3. solid content ~ 45 %. active content ~ 40 %. viscosity at 20 C (68 F) ~ 400 mPa.
Dispex AA 4040 Safety When handling this product, please comply with the advice and information given in the safety data sheet and observe protective and workplace hygiene measures
Technical Information dispex AA 4040. (old: dispex A40). general dispersing agent dispex AA 4040 is a derivative of a family of highly effective, low- viscosity dispersing agents for
water-based coating systems, especially suitable for the dispersion of inorganic pigments. chemical nature Solution of an ammonium salt of an acrylic polymer in water Properties physical
form straw-colored liquid shelf life Although dispex AA 4040 is freeze-stable it should be stored at temperatures above 5 C (41 F) to allow easy handling. typical properties solvent
water (no supply specification) density at 20 C (68 F) ~ g/cm3. solid content ~ 45 %. active content ~ 40 %. viscosity at 20 C (68 F) ~ 400 mPa.
2 S pH ~ Application dispex AA 4040 preparations are ideal dispersing agents for a wide range of water-based coatings. They can be used as supplied. The neutralizing alkali used in
conjunction with the acrylic polymer can significantly impact the properties of the final coating. dispex A40. releases ammonia during the drying process and therefore has little
impact on the resistances to water and alkali of the dry film. The use of dispex AA 4040 should be limited to pH 5 and tem- peratures lower than 70 C (158 F) due to potential loss of
volatile ammonia. dispex AA 4040 is based on an organic polymer and provides improved storage stability of both pigment dispersion and formulated paint when compared with inorganic
dispersing agents, , polyphosphate products.
3 There is little or no adverse reaction to high temperatures or pH changes as indicated in the graphs below (examples showing the accelerated effects).
4 1000. 500. 0. 0 10 20 30 40 50. hours after coating application dispex AA 4040 polyphosphate acrylic latex containing china clay, stored at 50 C (122 F). incorporation As opposed to
adding the dispersing agent to a pigment slurry, the pigment should be added to heavily stirred water to which the dis- persing agent had been added. In general, the pH of the final
prepara- tion should be in the region of to obtain optimum dispersing efficiency. The optimum amount of dispersing agent required to form a stable dispersion strongly depends on the
pigment’s chemical nature, the particle surface and shape. The polymer base of the latex also plays a very important part in the stability equation.
5 In general, significant overdosing may deteriorate the coating’s properties ( , water resis- tance) and generate an economic disadvantage. Likewise, insufficient dispersing agent will
lead to instability on storage. dispex AA 4040. As with other dispersing agents and because of the batch-to-batch variations of a specific pigment or latex type, the formulator
should use times the determined optimum level of dispersing agent. rheology curve of a pigment slurry 20 rpm Brookfield viscosity (65 % pigment solids) 3500. 3000. 2500 optimum [ ].
concentration 2000. 1500. 1000. 500. 0. % dispex A40 (based on pigment weight). dispex A40. recommended concentrations % on total pigment weight safety When handling this product,
please comply with the advice and information given in the safety data sheet and observe protective and workplace hygiene measures adequate for handling chemicals.
Dispex G40 and Dispex GA40 are derivatives of a family of highly effective, low viscosity dispersing agents for water-borne coating systems. The products are especially suited for the
dispersion of inorganic pigments. Compared with other dispersing agents Dispex G40 and Dispex GA40 allows formulation of high-gloss / low pigment volume concentration coatings in addition
to standard matt formulations.
Chemical Nature Dispex G40 is solution of a sodium salt of an acrylic copolymer in water. Dispex GA40 is solution of an ammonium salt of an acrylic copolymer in water.
Both belong to a family of products which are based on an acrylic copolymer. The copolymer is manufactured to a relatively narrow molecular weight distribution thus resulting in a
consistent product quality with maximum effectiveness.
Features: Dispex G40 and the Dispex GA40 are ideal dispersing agents for a wide range of water-borne coatings. The special copolymer backbone is designed for complete compatibility
with polypropylene and hexylene glycols used in high proportions in water-borne high gloss coatings to promote wet edge time.
Use of Dispex G40 and Dispex GA40 is especially recommended when high-gloss / low pigment volume concentration coatings are formulated.
The neutralizing alkali used in conjunction with the acrylic polymer can significantly impact the properties of the final coating. Dispex® GA40 releases ammonia during the drying process and
therefore has little impact on water and alkaline resistance of the dry film while the sodium-based Dispex G40 often contributes slightly negatively to the coating properties.
Dispex G40 is effective over a pH range 5-12 and up to temperatures in excess of 100 °C.
Use of Dispex GA40 should be limited to pH 5-10.5 and temperatures lower than 70°C due to potential loss of volatile ammonia.
Compared with inorganic dispersing agents, e.g. polyphosphate products, the organic polymer based Dispex G40 and Dispex GA40 provide improved storage stability of both, the pigment
dispersion and the formulated paint. There is little or no adverse reaction to high temperatures or pH changes as indicated in the graphs below, which examples are showing the accelerated
effects in laboratory formulations. With respect to this specific property the behavior of Dispex G40 or Dispex GA40 containing formulations is comparable to formulations containing the
dispersing agent Dispex N40.
Incorporation of Dispex G40 : It is recommended to add the pigment to heavily stirred water containing the dispersing agent as opposed to addition of the dispersing agent to a pigment
slurry. In general, the pH of the final preparation should be in the region of 8.5 to obtain optimum dispersing efficiency. The optimum amount of dispersing agent required to form a
stable dispersion strongly depends on the pigment’s chemical nature, the particle surface and shape. The polymer base of the latex also plays a very important part in the stability
equation. In general, significant overdosing may deteriorate the coatings properties (e.g. water resistance) and also generates an economic disadvantage. Likewise insufficient dispersing
agent will lead to instability on storage. In common with other dispersing agents, because of the batch-to-batch variations of the demands of a specific pigment or latex type it is
recommended that the formulator uses 1.5 – 2.0 times the determined optimum level of the dispersing agent.
Dispersants are chemical substances that serve to stabilize solids/particles (pigments) in a liquid dispersion/suspension. In the coatings industry these are in the form of: surface
actives (surfactants) and polymers
Universal dispersing resins for resin-containing pigment concentrates
Dispex® Ultra PA 4503 (old Efka 1503) fatty-acid-midified polymer
Anionic dispersing agents based on polyacrylic acid
Dispex® AA 4030 (old Pigment Disperser A) ammonium polyacrylate (co-) polymer
Dispex® AA 4040 (old Dispex A40)
Dispex® AA 4140 (old Dispex N40) sodium polyacrylate (co-) polymer
Dispex® CX 4230 (old Hydropalat 100) ammonium polyacrylate (co-) polymer
Dispex® CX 4231 (old Hydropalat 100)
Dispex® CX 4234 (old Hydropalat 34) styrene-acrylic copolymer
Dispex® CX 4320(old Pigment Disperser MD20) sodium salt of carboxylic acid copolymer
Dispex® CX 4345(old Ultradisperser MD21)
Low molecular weight dispersing agents mainly designed for water-based systems, surfactant-like type
Dispex® Ultra FA 4404 (old Hydropalat 3204) chelating agent
Dispex® Ultra FA 4416 (old Hydropalat 216) mixture of surfactants
Dispex® Ultra FA 4420 (old Efka 6220) fatty acid modified emulsifier (FAME)
Dispex® Ultra FA 4425 (old Efka 6225)
Dispex® Ultra FA 4431(old Efka 6230) aliphatic polyether with affinic groups
Dispex® Ultra FA 4437(old Hydropalat 3037) modified natural oil
Dispex® Ultra FA 4480 (old Hydropalat 1080) modified fatty alcohol ethoxylate
Dispex® Ultra FA 4483 (old Hydropalat 7003) phosphoric acid ester
High molecular weight dispersing agents
Dispex® Ultra PA 4550 (old Efka 4550) modified polyacrylate polymer
Dispex® Ultra PA 4580 (old Efka 4580) acrylic polymer emulsion
Dispex® Ultra PA 4590 (old Efka 4590) modified polyacrylate polymer
Dispex® Ultra PX 4575 (old Dispex Ultra PX 4575) acrylic block copolymer made by CFRP (controlled free radical polymerization)
Dispex® Ultra PX 4585 (old Efka 4585)