Hydrophobic Nature: Hydrophobic fumed silica is treated to repel water, reducing moisture absorption. This characteristic helps maintain the flowability and shelf stability of toner powders, ensuring they perform well over time.
2. Particle Size and Structure
Nanoscale Particles: The primary particles of fumed silica are extremely small, typically in the range of 5 to 30 nanometers. They have a high surface area, allowing for effective interaction with other toner components.
Porous Structure: The porous nature of fumed silica allows it to intercalate with toner components, contributing to enhanced performance characteristics.
3. Rheology Modifier
Viscosity Control: Hydrophobic fumed silica serves as a rheological additive, helping to modify the flow and viscosity of the toner. This results in a smoother process during printing and prevents issues like clogging and uneven dispersion.
4. Anti-Agglomeration Properties
Preventing Clumping: By reducing the tendency of toner particles to agglomerate, hydrophobic fumed silica ensures a consistent flow of toner during the printing process, leading to better quality prints without blemishes or smudges.
5. Improved Flowability
Enhanced Bulk Flow: The addition of hydrophobic fumed silica can significantly improve the bulk flow properties of the toner. This is crucial for automated systems where smooth handling and transfer of toner are essential for optimal performance.
6. Electrostatic Charge Control
Charge Modulation: Hydrophobic fumed silica can influence the electrostatic charge of the toner particles. This is vital for achieving optimal transfer efficiency from the drum to the print media, improving print quality.
7. Compatibility with Resins
Versatility in Formulations: Hydrophobic fumed silica is compatible with a wide range of polymer resins used in toner formulations, such as styrene-acrylic or polyester. This compatibility allows formulators to create tailored products to meet specific application requirements.
8. Durability and Performance Enhancement
Resistance to Smudging and Scratching: The addition of hydrophobic fumed silica enhances the durability of printed documents by providing resistance against common issues like smudging, scratching, or fading, leading to longer-lasting print quality.
9. Economic Efficiency
Cost-Effective Solution: Due to its effectiveness at low usage levels, hydrophobic fumed silica can improve toner performance without significantly increasing production costs, making it a cost-efficient additive for toner manufacturers.
September 24, 2024
