There are many types of dispersants, and different types of dispersants may have different chemical structures and mechanisms of action. The following are several common dispersants and their main functions:
Surfactants: Surfactants are a widely used dispersant, including non ionic, anionic, cationic, and zwitterionic surfactants. They can form micelles in liquids, encapsulating particles and dispersing them into the liquid, thereby inhibiting the aggregation and precipitation of particulate matter.
Polymer dispersant: Polymer dispersants are composed of high molecular weight polymers that can be dispersed by adsorbing and encapsulating particles. These dispersants usually have strong dispersion performance and stability, and are suitable for suspension or colloidal systems.
Corrosion inhibitors: Corrosion inhibitors can reduce the corrosion rate of electrolyte solutions on metal surfaces and can be used as dispersants. Corrosion inhibitors inhibit further oxidation and corrosion of metals by forming a protective film on their surface, while also dispersing small metal particles.
Colloidal protective agent: Colloidal protective agent can form stable colloidal particles by adsorbing on the surface of particles, thereby preventing particle aggregation and precipitation. This dispersant is suitable for the dispersion of colloidal systems or nanoparticles.
Coordination agent: Coordination agent can form complex with metal ions, change their solubility and charge state, and achieve particle dispersion. Common coordination agents include organic acids, organic amines, etc.
The functions of these dispersants can be comprehensively considered, mainly including enhancing dispersion performance, stabilizing suspension or colloid systems, preventing particle aggregation and precipitation, improving liquid fluidity, and protecting metal surfaces. The specific type of dispersant used depends on factors such as the type of material required for dispersion, system characteristics, and usage conditions.