Pigment paste and its uses

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aqueous composition, in particular a pigment paste, for a colouring system, and to the use thereof.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of surface coatings. In particular, the present invention relates to aqueous compositions, especially pigment pastes, for incorporation into colours and paints. Furthermore, the invention relates to the use of the pigment paste in surface coating systems, in particular in paints. Additionally, the present invention relates to a kit-of-parts for producing the coating composition. [Background technology]

[0002] Modern coating systems, especially paint compositions, are increasingly formulated on a water basis, since they should preferably be free of volatile organic compounds, i.e., VOC (volatile organic compounds)-free. Such VOC-free paint systems, or systems with a VOC content of less than 1 g / l, are considered to be solvent-free and zero-emission. From the standpoint of environmental protection and health protection, these systems are not problematic or at least less problematic than solvent-based systems. Furthermore, there are efforts to avoid or at least reduce the use of preservatives and biocides in paints. If a paint system does not contain preservatives or biocides, there is generally no need to declare hazardous substances and the paint can be applied and processed without any problems or special safety measures.

[0003] In practice, the use of aqueous systems, especially those in combination with organic binder systems, regularly results in the rapid infestation of pathogens, especially bacteria, yeasts or even molds, into the paint, which is why it is usually necessary to add preservatives and / or biocides to the paint. This is especially true for aqueous pigment pastes such as those used in coloring systems. Coloring systems are generally used to provide a variety of different colors and shades that can be individually selected and combined by the customer. A coloring system usually consists of a series of colored pigment pastes that are mixed with a binder or binder mixture, a so-called coloring base or base composition, in order to obtain a paint, especially a wall paint, with the desired shade. Pigment pastes are highly concentrated pigment-containing dispersions. The pigment paste and the base or coloring base together form a ready-to-use color or a ready-to-use coating. The mixing of the various amounts of the individual pigment pastes with the coloring base takes place in a machine where the mixing process is carried out with the support of software. After being removed from their original containers, the pigment pastes are stored more or less open for several weeks, during which time they are exposed via the ambient air to pathogens, in particular spores of bacteria, yeasts and molds, which almost inevitably leads to infestation by bacteria, yeasts or molds in solvent-free or water-based systems.

[0004] For this reason, preservatives and biocides are almost exclusively used in water-based pigment pastes and coloring systems. However, the use of biocides and preservatives is disadvantageous for many reasons, since they are generally problematic substances for both health and environmental protection, and their use should be minimized and is increasingly regulated by stricter chemical legislation. Furthermore, a significant disadvantage of conventional organic biocides is their vapor pressure: biocides can pass into the gas phase and cause, for example, allergies, and there is also a risk that the biocides will accumulate in the air, especially indoors. Furthermore, organic biocides are usually not stable in the long term and are decomposed, for example, by ultraviolet light. There are therefore attempts to provide aqueous pigment pastes, in particular aqueous pigment pastes for colouring systems, without preservatives or biocides. For this purpose, the pH value of the pigment paste is usually set to a value of 10 or higher, creating an environment in which many bacteria and yeasts, as well as most fungi, cannot grow.

[0005] However, with the increasing use of these systems, it has become apparent that there are a large number of alkaliphilic bacteria, yeasts and fungi, especially molds, that either grow well under these alkaline conditions or are well adapted to these conditions, necessitating the use of preservatives and biocides to combat these alkaliphilic pathogens.

[0006] Molecular formula Ca6Al2[(OH) 12 Calcium aluminate sulfate, constituting the mineral ettringite with [(SO4)3]·26H2O, is also known to be used as a white pigment in paints and paper coatings. Calcium aluminate sulfate is sold in the form of an aqueous basic suspension and can be added to paints in particular in small amounts. A method for producing calcium aluminate sulfate-based precipitates is described in WO 97 / 35807. The use of large amounts of calcium aluminate sulfate in the binder system is not possible, since the binder system thickens rapidly due to its relatively good solubility in water and therefore due to the amount of divalent and trivalent ions present in the dispersion. In particular, coagulation of the dispersed components, especially those that are electrostatically stabilized, is observed. However, the divalent and trivalent ions, especially the aluminum ions, present in the solution also mean that the aqueous suspension of calcium aluminate sulfate contains a pathogen-resistant effect that exceeds basic pH values, i.e. the aqueous suspension of calcium aluminate sulfate is less susceptible to attack or colonisation by all kinds of pathogens, especially bacteria, yeasts or moulds. However, calcium aluminate sulfate has the further disadvantage that it is less stable to dispersion and dries out quickly when applied to the colour, i.e. the open time of the colour is very short. Thus, the prior art still lacks both aqueous-based coating compositions and aqueous-based pigment pastes that can be formulated without preservatives and biocides, have a long open time, and are resistant to attack by microorganisms, in particular bacteria or molds. Summary of the Invention

[0007] It is therefore an object of the present invention to avoid or at least mitigate the disadvantages associated with the prior art discussed above. In particular, one object of the present invention is to provide a pigment paste which is solvent-free or VOC-free and SVOC-free and at the same time biocide- and preservative-free, in particular volatile biocides and preservative-free. Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a pigment paste which is also resistant to alkaliphilic bacteria, yeasts and molds. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a coloring system that allows for the simple coloring of many aqueous binder systems. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide an inorganic, pigment-based pathogen-resistant additive that does not impair the color properties of the coating composition. A subject of the present invention according to a first aspect is therefore an aqueous composition as defined in claim 1, further advantageous configurations of this aspect of the invention being the subject of the dependent claims relating thereto. A further subject of the invention according to a second aspect is the use of an aqueous composition as defined in claim 12. A further subject of the invention according to its third aspect is also a kit of parts as claimed in claim 13, further advantageous configurations of this aspect of the invention being the subject of the dependent claims relating thereto. A further subject of the invention according to its fourth aspect is also a composition as defined in claim 15, further advantageous configurations of this aspect of the invention being the subject of the dependent claims relating thereto. Finally, according to a fifth aspect of the invention, a further subject of the invention is a composition as defined in claim 19, further advantageous configurations of this aspect of the invention being the subject of the dependent claims relating thereto. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, specific features, characteristics, configurations, and embodiments, as well as advantages, etc., described below with respect to only one aspect of the present invention naturally apply to other aspects of the present invention and need not be explicitly stated.

[0008] It should further be noted that in the case of all relative or percentage amounts mentioned below, in particular amounts related to mass, these are selected by the skilled artisan in such a way that in the context of the present invention the total of the components, additives or auxiliary substances etc. always amounts to 100% or 100% by mass, however this is self-evident to the skilled artisan. Furthermore, all details of the parameters etc. mentioned below can in principle be determined or ascertained using standardized or explicitly mentioned determination methods or using determination methods familiar to those skilled in the art. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] With this in mind, the subject matter of the present invention will now be described in more detail. A subject of the present invention is therefore, according to a first aspect thereof, an aqueous composition, in particular a pigment paste for colouring systems, which composition comprises an inorganic compound of a trivalent metal having a solubility in water at 20° C. of less than 5 g / l.

[0010] In particular, the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal is selected from the group consisting of yttrium, scandium, lanthanum, lanthanides, vanadium, chromium, molybdenum, tungsten, iron, boron, aluminum, and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the trivalent metal is selected from the group consisting of scandium, yttrium, lanthanum, cerium, boron, aluminum, and mixtures thereof. Even more preferably, the trivalent metal is selected from the group consisting of lanthanum, cerium, boron, aluminum, and mixtures thereof. The best results are obtained when the trivalent metal is aluminum. In the context of the present invention, trivalent metals are to be understood in particular as metals which form stable ions in the +III oxidation state under normal conditions, ie at 25° C. and a pressure of 1.013 bar. This is because, as the Applicant has surprisingly found, when the aqueous pigment paste comprises a certain amount of trivalent ions, it is possible to produce a stable pigment paste which is suitable for incorporation into a binder system for a coloring system and which is both solvent-free and biocide- and preservative-free. The use of trivalent ions, and in particular compounds of trivalent metals, in particular aluminium compounds, makes it possible in particular to prevent the colonisation of the aqueous composition by alkaliphilic pathogens, in particular bacteria, yeasts and moulds.

[0011] The aqueous compositions according to the invention, in particular the pigment pastes, do not show any resistance formation by bacteria, yeasts or moulds, especially when they contain alkaline pH values. This is in particular due to the fact that trivalent ions often have weak pathogen resistance properties, this is especially true for aluminium ions. The use of compounds of trivalent metals which release trivalent ions in aqueous solution can in particular ensure that the pigment pastes are zero-emission, since inorganic compounds are essentially ionic and therefore cannot migrate to the gas phase. The migration of active substances to the gas phase represents in particular the main drawback of solvent-based systems or systems containing preservatives or biocides. This is because these substances are both released to a significant extent into the environment during processing and subsequently released by the coating, as well as accumulating in the indoor air, especially when used indoors. Furthermore, the aqueous compositions according to the invention, in particular the pigment pastes, are usually set to an alkaline nature, which further increases the pathogen resistance effect.

[0012] Also, the applicant's experiments have shown that the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal should have a certain solubility in an aqueous system so that sufficient trivalent ions are present in the composition, thereby resulting in a concentration-dependent pathogen resistance effect or imparting a significantly increased pathogen resistance to the composition containing the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal. However, the concentration of trivalent ions should not be too high, otherwise the processing and application properties of the composition will be significantly impaired. In the context of the present invention, inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, are usually assumed to have a solubility in water at 20° C. of less than 4 g / l, in particular less than 3 g / l, preferably less than 2 g / l, more preferably less than 1.5 g / l and particularly preferably less than 1 g / l. Furthermore, inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, may be defined as having a solubility in water at 20° C. of more than 0.001 g / l, in particular more than 0.01 g / l, preferably more than 0.1 g / l, more preferably more than 0.2 g / l, and particularly preferably more than 0.4 g / l.

[0013] Furthermore, in the context of the present invention, inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, may be assumed to have a solubility in water at 20° C. in the range of 0.001 to 5 g / l, in particular 0.001 to 4 g / l, preferably 0.01 to 3 g / l, more preferably 0.1 to 2 g / l, particularly preferably 0.2 to 1.5 g / l, particularly preferably 0.4 to 1 g / l. It has been shown that such compounds of trivalent metals having low, but not negligible, solubility can be added in large amounts to the pigment paste without impairing the gloss of the pigment paste and of the coating composition obtained after incorporation of the pigment paste into the binder system. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular the inorganic aluminum-containing compound, is provided as further comprising a divalent metal. In particular, it has been found that inorganic compounds containing divalent metals and trivalent metals have particularly good pathogen resistance properties, or that compositions containing inorganic compounds containing divalent metals and trivalent metals have particularly good pathogen resistance properties.In the context of the present invention, it can be specified that the divalent metal is selected from the group of magnesium, calcium, copper, manganese, iron, zinc, and mixtures thereof.In this context, special results are obtained when the divalent metal is selected from magnesium, calcium, copper, and mixtures thereof.Even more preferably, the divalent metal is calcium.

[0014] The inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular the inorganic aluminum-containing compound, may in particular be selected from the group of magnesium aluminum phosphate, magnesium aluminum silicate, calcium aluminum phosphate, calcium aluminum silicate, calcium aluminate hydrate, calcium aluminate sulfate, and mixtures thereof. In the context of the present invention, the best results are obtained when the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular the inorganic aluminum-containing compound, is selected from calcium aluminates. It is fully evident whether the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular the inorganic aluminum-containing compound, is selected from the group of calcium aluminate hydrate, calcium aluminate sulfate, and mixtures thereof, and is preferably calcium aluminate sulfate.

[0015] Particularly good results have been obtained in this context when inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, such as tricalcium aluminate hydrate [3CaO * Al2O3 * 6H2O or Ca3Al2(OH) 12 ], tetracalcium aluminate hydrate [4CaO * Al2O3 * 7H2O or Ca4Al2(OH) 14 ], calcium aluminate sulfate [ettringite, 3CaO * Al2O3 * 3CaSO4 * 32H2O or Ca6[Al(OH)6]2(SO4)2 * 26H2O], and mixtures thereof. Particularly good results are obtained in this context when the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular the inorganic aluminum-containing compound, is selected from the group consisting of tetracalcium aluminate hydrate, calcium aluminate sulfate, and mixtures thereof.

[0016] In the context of the present invention, the inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, are calcium aluminum sulfate [ettringite, 3CaO * Al2O3 * 3CaSO4 * 32H2O, or Ca6[Al(OH)6]2(SO4)2 * 26H2O]. The molecular formula may be given as 24 water of crystallization molecules, which differs from the representation of 26 water of crystallization molecules shown above. However, it always refers to the same compound.

[0017] Calcium aluminum sulfate is commercially available in the form of an aqueous suspension. Calcium aluminate sulfate is composed of the mineral ettringite and contains a calcium oxide content of about 13.5% by weight, an aluminum oxide content of about 8% by weight, and a crystal water content of about 45% by weight. Calcium aluminum sulfate or ettringite or its aqueous dispersions are also sometimes used as white pigments in architectural paints and paper coatings. Calcium aluminum sulfate includes high covering power, as well as strong settling behavior and rapid drying behavior, so that it cannot usually be used in high concentrations in aqueous dispersions, especially paints. However, in the context of the present invention, it has been shown that calcium aluminum sulfate can be stabilized in an excellent manner in highly filled aqueous dispersions, so that a storage-stable pigment paste with a long open time can be obtained. Even more surprising is the fact that by using calcium aluminum sulfate it is possible to obtain a solvent-free and therefore emission-free, biocide-free and preservative-free pigment paste, which has a color brilliance and achieves the same color strength, color position and brilliance as standard pigment pastes currently in use that contain preservatives and biocides.

[0018] The compositions according to the invention, in particular the pigment pastes, can be used in all standard coloring systems currently in use as biocide-free and preservative-free systems, which systems are furthermore solvent-free, i.e. VOC-free. In particular, the compositions according to the invention, in particular the pigment pastes, can be used in colored paints without conversion in commercially available and widely used machines. Typically, in the context of the present invention, inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, particularly inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, are assumed to be present in the form of particles. In the context of the present invention, according to one embodiment, the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular the inorganic aluminum-containing compound, may be assumed to have a particle size distribution D10 in the range of 0.05 to 0.5 μm, in particular 0.1 to 0.4 μm, preferably 0.15 to 0.3 μm, more preferably 0.18 to 0.25 μm. Similarly, inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, particularly inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, may be defined as having a particle size distribution D50 in the range of 1.0 to 4 μm, particularly 1.5 to 3.0 μm, preferably 1.8 to 2.7, more preferably 2.0 to 2.5 μm. Similarly, inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, particularly inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, may be expected to have a particle size distribution D90 in the range of 5.0 to 10 μm, particularly 5.5 to 8.0 μm, preferably 6.0 to 7.5 μm, more preferably 6.5 to 7.0 μm. The terms D10, D50, and D90 respectively mean that 10% of all particles, 50% of all particles, or 90% of all particles have a smaller particle size. The particle size or particle size distribution can be determined, inter alia, by laser scattering. In this embodiment, it is particularly preferred that the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular the inorganic aluminum-containing compound, comprises a particle size distribution D10 of 0.2 μm, a particle size distribution D50 of 2-2.5 μm and a particle size distribution D90 of 6.8 μm. With the aforementioned particle size distributions, in particular by the use of calcium aluminum sulfate (ettringite), matte pigment pastes and paints with high opacity can be obtained. However, the color position and color intensity are often strongly affected and the color is lackluster compared to standard pigment pastes. According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular the inorganic aluminum-containing compound, comprises a particle size distribution D10 in the range of 0.05 to 0.45 μm, in particular 0.1 to 0.4 μm, preferably 0.15 to 0.3 μm, more preferably 0.18 to 0.25 μm. Similarly, according to this embodiment, the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular the inorganic aluminum-containing compound, may be defined as having a particle size distribution D50 in the range of 0.5 to 1.8 μm, in particular 0.6 to 1.5 μm, preferably 0.7 to 1.2 μm, more preferably 0.8 to 1.0 μm. Further, according to this embodiment, the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular the inorganic aluminum-containing compound, may be specified as having a particle size distribution D90 in the range of 2.0 to 4 μm, in particular 2.2 to 3.7 μm, preferably 2.5 to 3.5 μm, more preferably 2.8 to 3.2 μm.

[0019] In the context of this preferred embodiment, it is particularly more preferred that the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular the inorganic compound containing aluminum, comprises a particle size distribution D10 of 0.2 μm, a particle size distribution D50 of 0.9 μm, and a particle size distribution D90 of 3.0 μm. With these smaller particle sizes and narrower particle size distributions compared to the above embodiment, it is possible to produce lustrous color pastes that can be added to standard pigment pastes in amounts of 15% by weight or more without significantly changing the color gloss, color position or color intensity. It was not foreseeable that inorganic compounds of a trivalent metal, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, which are often white pigments, can be added to pigment pastes without significantly changing the color and application properties of the pigment paste and also the color and application properties of the binder system in which the pigment paste is incorporated.

[0020] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular the inorganic aluminum-containing compound, comprises a bimodal particle size distribution. In particular, the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular the inorganic aluminum-containing compound, comprises a bimodal particle size distribution having a particle size and particle size distribution according to the various embodiments described above. In this way, the color space, color locus, color intensity and gloss of the composition, in particular the pigment paste and the resulting coating composition, can be set and determined in a targeted manner.

[0021] The invention therefore also makes it possible to mix new colours in a simple manner by specifically setting the particle size of the inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular the inorganic compounds containing aluminium. By controlling the particle size, it is also possible to set the degree of matting or gloss and the opacity of the composition, in particular the pigment paste. As regards the amount of inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, particularly inorganic aluminum-containing compound, in the composition, this can vary over a wide range depending on which color effect and which pathogen resistance properties are to be achieved. In the context of the present invention, the composition usually comprises an inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular an inorganic aluminium-containing compound, in an amount of 2 to 20% by weight, in particular 5 to 15% by weight, preferably 6 to 13% by weight, more preferably 7 to 10% by weight, based on the composition.

[0022] The compositions according to the invention therefore make it possible to obtain very high amounts of inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, without altering or deteriorating the color brilliance of the pigment paste, compared to the biocide-containing and preservative-containing systems used up to now.The compositions according to the invention therefore make it possible to simply replace preservatives and biocides with inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, in all common pigment pastes, preferably pigment pastes for coloring systems. As previously constituted, the composition usually comprises a basic pH value. In this context, it is particularly well documented if the composition comprises a pH value of 9.5 or more. Particularly good results are obtained in this context if the composition comprises a pH value in the range of 9.5 to 14, in particular 9.5 to 13, preferably 9.5 to 12, more preferably 9.5 to 11.5, more preferably 10.2 to 11.4. In the context of the present invention, it is usually assumed that the composition comprises a wetting agent or dispersant. The presence of a wetting agent or dispersant is particularly advantageous in preventing the deposition of inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, especially inorganic aluminum-containing compounds. The deposition of inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, especially inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, can lead to the rapid unusability of the pigment paste, which can be prevented by using a wetting agent or dispersant. In addition, the dispersibility of pigments and fillers is also increased.

[0023] Furthermore, the use of wetting agents and dispersants is also advantageous due to the relatively high solubility of the inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, since in the presence of residual solubility, small crystals grow at the expense of larger crystals. This phenomenon is known as Ostwald ripening. Furthermore, aggregates may grow together across crystal boundaries. This may result in larger particles, which may impair the color properties of the pigment paste due to a greater interaction with light and therefore a higher proportion of white color. By targeted formulation with wetting agents and dispersants, the paste remains stable without forming larger crystallites. Wetting agents may be added during the preparation, in particular precipitation, of the particles of the inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds. Advantageously, a portion of the total amount of wetting agents and dispersants is added during the preparation, in particular precipitation, of the particles of the inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, while the remaining portion of the wetting agents and dispersants is added during the formulation of the composition according to the invention. Preferably, in each case, different wetting agents and dispersants are used to prepare the particles of the inorganic compounds of trivalent metals and the formulation of the composition according to the invention.

[0024] When the composition contains a dispersant, the wetting agent or dispersant is usually selected from the group of nonionic polymers, cationic polymers, anionic polymers, and mixtures thereof, in particular nonionic copolymers, anionic copolymers, copolymers with pigment-affine groups, polyethers, and mixtures thereof.Therefore, a large number of surface-active substances can be used as wetting agents and dispersants.Wetting and dispersing agents with pigment-affine groups are particularly preferred. Particularly good results are obtained in the context of the present invention when the wetting agent or dispersant is selected from the group of polycarboxylates, in particular salts of polyacrylic acid, polyphosphates, in particular linear polyphosphates and / or cyclic metaphosphates, polyether phosphates, polycarboxylic acid polymers, acrylic block copolymers, ethoxylated fatty alcohols, nonionic saturated long-chain alcohols, fatty alcohol sulfates, alkyl phosphonates, polysiloxane ethers, in particular methoxypolyethoxypropyltrisiloxanes, alkynyl ethoxylates, fluorosurfactants, and mixtures thereof.

[0025] The molecular weight of the wetting agent or dispersant used may also vary over a wide range. Typically, the wetting agent or dispersant used comprises an average molecular weight, in particular a weight average molecular weight, of at least 1,000 g / mol, preferably at least 1,500 g / mol. In general, the polymeric stabilizer comprises an average molecular weight, in particular a weight average molecular weight, in the range of 1,000 to 1,000,000 g / mol, in particular 1,250 to 100,000 g / mol, preferably 1,500 to 75,000 g / mol, particularly preferably 2,000 to 50,000 g / mol. Advantageously, the wetting agent or dispersant is based on a functionalized polymer, in particular with polar functional groups, in particular an acidic and / or basic functionalized polymer. For example, the wetting agent or dispersant may be selected from the group of functionalized polyamines, functionalized polyurethanes, functionalized poly(meth)acrylic resins, functionalized vinyl copolymers, functionalized polyether / polyester copolymers, functionalized polyethers, functionalized polyesters, functionalized fatty acid copolymers, functionalized block copolymers and / or functionalized polyalkoxylates, as well as mixtures or combinations of at least two of these compounds.

[0026] Typically, the wetting agent or dispersant may be based on a functionalized polymer, in particular an acidic and / or basic functionalized polymer, which contains at least one functional group, which may in particular be selected from the group of hydroxyl (-OH), thiol (-SH), amine, ammonium, carboxyl, carbonyl, ester, ether, sulfonyl, phosphonic acid, phosphoric acid, and / or phosphate ester functional groups, preferably hydroxyl (-OH), thiol (-SH), and / or amine functional groups.

[0027] In the case of basic functionalization, the base number of the polymer may in particular be at least 10 mg KOH / g, in particular at least 20 mg KOH / g, preferably at least 25 mg KOH / g, and in the case of acidic functionalization, the acid number may in particular be at least 10 mg KOH / g, preferably at least 25 mg KOH / g, particularly preferably at least 50 mg KOH / g. In the case of polymers with acidic and basic functionalization, both of the aforementioned values ​​apply.

[0028] Preferably, the wetting agent or dispersant may be selected from the dispersants and / or wetting agents mentioned below, as described in the following publications, the disclosure of each of which is incorporated herein by reference: - the polyurethanes described in EP-A-0 154 678 and EP-A-0 318 999, - polyurethanes as described in EP 0 270 126 A1, - modified polyurethanes and polyamines as described in EP 1 593 700; - salted polyamines as described in EP 0 893 155 A1, - the phosphoric acid esters described in EP 0 417 490 A1, - branched polymers containing imidazole groups, as described in EP-A-1 081 169, ethoxylates, in particular the alkoxylated epoxide / amine adducts described in EP-A-1 650 246 and the epoxide adducts described in EP-A-1 486 524; - copolymers with fatty acids as described in EP 1 640 389; - transesterified polyacrylates as described in EP-A-0 879 860, - acid-functional polyesters as described in WO 2005 / 097872, - block copolymers (gradient copolymers) as described in EP 1 416 019 A1. Particularly good results are obtained in the context of the present invention when the composition contains wetting or dispersing agent in an amount of 1 to 50% by weight, in particular 3 to 45% by weight, preferably 5 to 40% by weight and more preferably 8 to 35% by weight, based on the composition. Preferably, greater amounts of wetting agents or dispersing agents are used in the composition to stabilize both the pigment and the inorganic compound of the trivalent metal, especially the inorganic aluminum-containing compound.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the composition comprises in each case: (a) inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, in particular in an amount of 2 to 20% by weight, (b) a wetting or dispersing agent, especially in an amount of 1 to 50% by weight Includes. All features, special features and advantages mentioned above in relation to the further embodiment also apply to this embodiment, as appropriate. In the context of the present invention, it is further preferred if the composition comprises a moisturizer. In the context of the present invention, humectant is understood as a compound that can bind water and prevent composition from drying out quickly.This is particularly important because many inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, especially inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, dry out quickly.However, this is not acceptable for pigment pastes that are kept in the machine of coloring system for several weeks. If the composition contains a humectant, the humectant is typically selected from the group consisting of polyethylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polyacylene glycol, glycerol, glycerol ethoxylates, polyethers, polyurethanes, and mixtures thereof. In the context of the present invention, good results are obtained when the composition contains the humectant in an amount of 0.1 to 30% by weight, in particular 1 to 25% by weight, preferably 2 to 20% by weight and more preferably 5 to 15% by weight, based on the composition.

[0030] Thus, in the context of the present invention, particularly good results are obtained if the composition in each case: (a) inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, in particular in an amount of 2 to 20% by weight, (b) a wetting or dispersing agent, especially in an amount of 1 to 50% by weight, (c) a humectant, particularly in an amount of 0.1 to 30% by weight This is obtained when the compound contains For these embodiments, all the features, special features and advantages mentioned above in the context of the further embodiments apply to the present invention as appropriate. In the context of the present invention, it is generally assumed that the composition comprises a pigment. Typically, the pigment is selected from the group consisting of organic pigments, inorganic pigments, and mixtures thereof. Generally, the pigments used in the context of the present invention are selected from the group of organic and / or inorganic pigments, in particular pigment soots, metal oxides, in particular oxides of titanium, zinc, iron and / or cerium, and mixtures thereof.

[0031] Suitable organic pigments include, for example, nitroso, nitro, azo, xanthene, quinoline, anthraquinone, phthalocyanine, metal complex, isoindolinone, isoindoline, quinacridone, perinone, perylene, diketopyrrolopyrrole, thioindigo, dioxazine, triphenylmethane, and quinophthalone compounds. Furthermore, the organic pigments may be selected, for example, from carmine, carbon black, aniline black, azo yellow, quinacridone, and phthalocyanine blue. Examples of these are PY74, PY65, PY110, PR112, PR122, PR254, PR168, PO5, PG7, PB15:1, PB15:2, PB15:3, PB15:4, and PBk7.

[0032] Suitable inorganic pigments include, for example, metal oxides or other metal compounds that are sparingly soluble or at least essentially insoluble in water, in particular oxides of titanium, such as titanium dioxide (CI 77891), zinc, iron, such as red and black iron oxides (CI 77491 (red), 77499 (black)) or iron oxide hydrates (CI 77492, yellow), zirconium, silicon, manganese, aluminum, cerium, chromium, and mixed oxides of the aforementioned elements, as well as mixtures thereof. Other suitable pigments are barium sulfate, zinc sulfide, manganese violet, ultramarine blue, and Berlin blue pigments. The pigments can be surface-modified, and the surface can, for example, as a result of the modification, comprise hydrophilic, amphiphilic, or hydrophobic compounds or groups. In particular, inorganic pigments PR101, PY42, Pb28, Pb29, PW6, and Pbk33 can be used. The surface treatment may consist of providing the pigment with a thin hydrophilic and / or hydrophobic inorganic or organic layer by methods known to those skilled in the art.

[0033] However, in the context of the present invention, it is sufficient if the pigment is selected from the group consisting of titanium dioxide, yellow iron oxide, red iron oxide, bismuth vanadate, carbon black, toluidine red, phthalocyanine, phthalocyanine blue, monoazo yellow, isoindolinone yellow, quinacridone, benzimidazolone, diketopyrrolopyrrole red, and mixtures thereof. Typically, the composition contains the pigment in an amount of 5 to 85% by weight, in particular 6 to 80% by weight, preferably 8 to 75% by weight, more preferably 10 to 70% by weight, based on the composition.

[0034] Thus, in the context of the present invention, particularly good results are obtained if the composition in each case: (a) inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, in particular in an amount of 2 to 20% by weight, (b) a wetting or dispersing agent, especially in an amount of 1 to 50% by weight, (c) a humectant, especially in an amount of 0.1 to 30% by weight, (d) pigments, especially in an amount of 5 to 85% by weight This is obtained when the compound contains Preferably, said compositions comprise a basic pH. For this embodiment of the invention, all the aforementioned advantages, preferred features and special properties previously described in the context of the other embodiments apply accordingly. In particular, in the context of the present invention, it is usually assumed that the composition comprises a pH adjusting agent, in which the pH is set in a particularly preferred range, both for the stability of the composition and for the prevention of invasion by pathogens. The pH adjusters are usually chosen from inorganic and organic acids and bases, in particular inorganic and organic bases, preferably inorganic bases.

[0035] When the composition contains a pH adjuster, it is sufficient to prove that the pH adjuster is selected from the group consisting of hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, citric acid, pyridine carboxylic acid, acetic acid, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, lithium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, ammonia, water glass, dimethylglucamine, and mixtures thereof.Preferably, the pH adjuster is selected from the group consisting of sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, lithium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, ammonia, water glass, dimethylglucamine, and mixtures thereof. When the composition contains a pH adjuster, the composition typically contains the pH adjuster in an amount of 0.01 to 10 mass %, particularly 0.1 to 8 mass %, preferably 0.5 to 7 mass %, and more preferably 1 to 5 mass %, based on the composition. Advantageously, the composition usually comprises at least one additive, typically selected from the group of rheological additives, stabilizers, antifoam components, thickeners, pH stabilizers, rheological improvers, and mixtures thereof.

[0036] The rheological additives or thickeners may be natural organic polymers and their derivatives, for example xanthan gum, gum arabic, karaya, tragacanth, locust bean gum, guar, quince mucilage, pectin, agar, carrageenan, alginates, starch and starch derivatives, cellulose and its derivatives, such as methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose and methylhydroxyethylcellulose, and gelatin, preferably xanthan gum. Inorganic layered silicates such as bentonite, hectorite, and magnesium aluminum silicate may also be used, as well as polyacrylate-based thickeners (e.g., Carbopol types from Lubrizol, e.g., Carbopol ETD 2020 or Aqua SF-1), HEURs (hydrophobically modified ethoxylated urethane polymers), polyurethane thickeners (e.g., special Aculyn grades from Rohm & Haas), colloidal silicic acid and urea, and / or polyamide-based rheology modifiers, each of which may be used alone or in combination.

[0037] Suitable antifoaming ingredients are usually prepared by mixing small amounts of hydrophobic ingredients such as petrolatum oil (INCI: petrolatum), castor oil, mineral oil, vegetable oil, or silicone compounds known by INCI names such as bisphenylhexamethicone, dimethicone, dimethicone silylate, dimethiconol, diphenyl dimethicone, diphenylsiloxyphenyl trimethicone, disiloxane, PEG / PPG-12 / 16 dimethicone, PEG / PPG-12 / 18 dimethicone, PEG / PPG-16 / 8 dimethicone, PEG / PPG-8 / 26 dimethicone, phenethyldisiloxane, phenyl dimethicone, phenethyl dis ... Examples of suitable antifoaming agents include ethylhexyl trimethicone, polysilicone-1, polysilicone-2, polysilicone-7, polysilicone-8, polysilicone-10, silica dimethicone silylate, silica silylate, simethicone, trimethylsiloxysilicate, trimethylsiloxysilicate / dimethicone crosspolymer, triphenyl trimethicone and trisiloxane, behenyl methacrylate / ethylamine oxide, methacrylate copolymer, C12-14 Sec-Pareth-5, hexamidine diisothionate, hexyldeceth-2, laureth-5 butyl ether, Rhus Semialata leaf extract, and combinations of hydrophobic components with solids, such as silica, such as Evonik Industries' Sipernat® grades. Alcohols such as ethanol, isopropanol, hexane-1-ol, propan-2-ol, etc., may also have an antifoaming effect, especially in higher amounts. If the composition comprises an additive, it is sufficient to prove whether the composition contains the additive in an amount of 0.01 to 10% by weight, in particular 0.1 to 8% by weight, preferably 0.5 to 6% by weight, more preferably 1 to 5% by weight, based on the composition.

[0038] Thus, in the context of the present invention, particularly good results are obtained if the composition in each case: (a) inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, in particular in an amount of 2 to 20% by weight, (b) a wetting or dispersing agent, especially in an amount of 1 to 50% by weight, (c) a humectant, especially in an amount of 0.1 to 30% by weight, (d) pigments, especially in an amount of 5 to 85% by weight, (e) a pH regulator, especially in an amount of 0.1 to 10% by weight, (f) additives, especially in amounts ranging from 0.01 to 10% by weight This is obtained when the compound contains For these embodiments, all features, advantages, and characteristics previously described in the context of other embodiments apply, as appropriate. As mentioned before, this composition is an aqueous composition. In the context of the present invention, the composition typically comprises water in an amount of 1 to 80% by weight, in particular 2 to 60% by weight, preferably 3 to 50% by weight, more preferably 5 to 40% by weight, based on the composition.

[0039] Thus, in the context of the present invention, particularly good results are obtained if the composition in each case: (a) inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, in particular in an amount of 2 to 20% by weight, (b) a wetting or dispersing agent, especially in an amount of 1 to 50% by weight, (c) a humectant, especially in an amount of 0.1 to 30% by weight, (d) pigments, especially in an amount of 5 to 85% by weight, (e) a pH regulator, especially in an amount of 0.1 to 10% by weight, (f) additives, especially in an amount of 0.01 to 10% by weight, (g) water, especially in an amount of 1 to 80% by weight This is obtained when the compound contains For this embodiment of the invention, all previously mentioned advantages, preferred features and special characteristics previously mentioned in the context of the other embodiments apply where appropriate.

[0040] In the context of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment, the composition is further specified to comprise an additional inorganic or organic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular an additional inorganic or organic aluminum-containing compound.This compound is usually significantly more soluble in water than the aforementioned inorganic compound of a trivalent metal.The presence of the additional inorganic or organic compound of a trivalent metal can, for example, specifically set or reduce the solubility of the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular the inorganic aluminum-containing compound, described in detail above, since the solubility product of the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal is immediately exceeded by the addition of the additional compound of a trivalent metal, especially when the addition contains the same ion. In this way, retardation of the solubility of inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, can be achieved, since the compounds only become more soluble if the trivalent ions are removed from the equilibrium, such as by the formation of less soluble compounds.

[0041] In the context of the present invention, particularly good results are obtained when the further inorganic or organic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular the further inorganic or organic aluminum-containing compound, is selected from aluminum halides, in particular aluminum trichloride, aluminum hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide halides, in particular aluminum dihydroxide chloride, aluminum carboxylates, and mixtures thereof. If the composition contains a further inorganic or organic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular an inorganic aluminium-containing compound or an organoaluminium-containing compound, it is sufficiently established whether the composition contains a further inorganic or organic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular a further inorganic aluminium-containing compound or an organoaluminium-containing compound, in an amount of 0.1 to 5% by weight, in particular 0.2 to 4% by weight, preferably 0.3 to 3% by weight, more preferably 0.5 to 2% by weight, based on the composition.

[0042] In addition to the addition of further inorganic or organic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic or organic aluminum-containing compounds, which reduce or delay the solubility of inorganic compounds of trivalent metals having a solubility of less than 5 g / l at 20°C, especially when the same type of ions are added, there is a further possibility to reduce the solubility of the compounds or to cause a delay in solubility. For example, it is possible to encapsulate or coat the particles of inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds. The coating or encapsulation material is slightly porous or deteriorates over time, so that a larger proportion of inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, having a solubility of less than 5 g / l at 20°C can dissolve with a time delay.

[0043] It is further possible to add surfactants such as alkane carboxylic acids, in particular oleic acid, to particles of inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, having a solubility of less than 5 g / l at 20° C., so that a double layer of surfactant is formed on the surface of the particles, whereby the inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, are, so to speak, encapsulated and the solubility is delayed. Thus, in the context of the present invention, particularly good results are obtained if the composition in each case: (a) inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular inorganic aluminum-containing compounds, in particular in an amount of 2 to 20% by weight, (b) a wetting or dispersing agent, especially in an amount of 1 to 50% by weight, (c) a humectant, especially in an amount of 0.1 to 30% by weight, (d) pigments, especially in an amount of 5 to 85% by weight, (e) a pH regulator, especially in an amount of 0.1 to 10% by weight, (f) additives, especially in an amount of 0.01 to 10% by weight, (g) water, especially in an amount of 1 to 80% by weight; (h) further inorganic compounds of trivalent metals, in particular in an amount of 0.1% by weight This is obtained when the compound contains For this embodiment, all features, advantages and special properties described above in the context of the further embodiments apply accordingly.

[0044] Furthermore, the composition can contain a filler.When the composition contains a filler, the filler is usually an inorganic filler.It is fully demonstrated whether the filler is selected from the group of barium sulfate, calcium carbonate, silicon dioxide, especially amorphous silicon dioxide, silicate, talc, mica, kaolin, hollow microspheres, and mixtures thereof. Furthermore, good results are obtained when the composition contains a filler in an amount of 1 to 30% by weight, in particular 2 to 25% by weight, preferably 3 to 20% by weight, preferably 4 to 15% by weight and particularly preferably 5 to 10% by weight, based on the composition. Additionally, all embodiments of the aqueous composition preferably include a basic pH. In the context of the present invention, it is usually assumed that the composition is at least substantially free of preservatives, in particular free of preservatives. Likewise, in the context of the present invention, it is envisaged that the composition is preferably at least substantially free of biocides, in particular free of biocides. The compositions according to the invention preferably contain no preservatives, no biocides and no volatile organic compounds, i.e. they are VOC-free, so that they do not contain substances which normally require declaration and can be easily used in various ways from the standpoint of environmental protection, health protection and occupational safety.

[0045] Furthermore, the compositions according to the invention are in particular stable in storage for a period of at least 2 months, in particular at least 4 months, in particular at least 6 months, preferably at least 12 months.Similarly, the compositions according to the invention can be assumed to be stable in storage for a period of 2 to 36 months, in particular 4 to 20 months, in particular 6 to 18 months, preferably 12 to 15 months. "Storage stable" means that the physical and chemical properties of the composition do not change during storage, or change only to an extent that does not impair the application properties of the composition. A further subject of the present invention is, according to a second aspect of the invention, the use of the aqueous composition as described previously as a pigment paste for a pigmented binder system, in particular for paints, preferably emulsion paints.

[0046] The binder system, in particular the coloring base or base composition, is preferably an aqueous binder system.Typically, the coloring base is an aqueous dispersion, a water-based paint, an emulsion paint, a lime paint, a silicate paint, a silicone resin paint, an emulsion silicate paint, a sol-silicate paint, a nano-hybrid paint, or a mixture thereof, preferably an emulsion paint.However, it is also possible that the coloring base is a solvent-based dispersion or a solvent-based paint.However, preferably, an aqueous coloring base is used, which is preferably solvent-free, in particular contains a VOC content of less than 1 g / l.

[0047] As described above, the coloring base usually contains a binder in an aqueous dispersion. In this case, the coloring base can be defined as containing an organic binder in the form of an aqueous dispersion of a polymer. Preferably, the polymer is selected from acrylate, vinyl acetate, and / or styrene, in particular pure acrylate, and / or terpolymer of the compounds mentioned, preferably pure acrylate-based. However, it is also possible to use inorganic binders, such as water glass or silicic acid sol, or organic hybrid binders, in particular aqueous organosilicate hybrid dispersions, and / or starch, and / or starch hybrid binders. It is also possible to use acrylic resins, acrylic silicone resins, silicone resins, urethane resins, unsaturated polyester resins, or alkyd resins, and mixtures thereof.

[0048] However, preferably, the coloring base comprises an organic binder. In this context, particularly good results are obtained when the coloring base comprises a polymer selected from vinyl acetate / ethylene copolymers, vinyl aromatics, in particular styrene and acrylate-based copolymers, or pure acrylate-based copolymers, in particular pure acrylate-based copolymers. Pure acrylates include (meth)acrylates, i.e. homopolymers, in particular copolymers of acrylates and / or methacrylates, optionally with (meth)acrylic acid, i.e. acrylic acid and / or methacrylic acid, as comonomer building blocks. The organic binder is preferably used in the form of an aqueous binder dispersion, as described above. For further details of the uses according to the invention, reference may be made to the above descriptions of the compositions according to the invention, which apply accordingly to the uses according to the invention. A further subject of the invention is, according to a third aspect thereof, a kit-of-parts comprising a composition as described previously and a colour base, in particular a coating composition, preferably an emulsion paint. By means of the kit of parts according to the invention, almost all organic and inorganic binder systems can be obtained preservative-free and biocide-free in water-based systems, preferably purely water-based systems.

[0049] The kit of parts according to the invention is particularly suitable for the production of preservative-free and biocide-free coloring or pigmented paint systems, as well as for the production of pigmented water-based glazes, water-based paints, paints, in particular emulsion paints, lime paints, silicate paints, silicone resin paints, emulsion silicate paints, sol silicate paints and / or nano hydride paints. For further details of the coloring base, reference is made to the previous provisions for the use according to the invention. According to a preferred embodiment, the binder, in particular the emulsion paint, comprises a complexing agent and / or a pH stabilizer.

[0050] Complexing agents or pH stabilizers are preferably present in the pigmented base, especially in emulsion paints, since the presence of non-negligible amounts of trivalent ions, and possibly also divalent ions, in the compositions according to the invention, especially in pigment pastes, often leads to an undesirable thickening of the binder system, which can be reliably prevented by adding complexing agents or, in many cases, also pH stabilizers. In the context of the present invention, it is preferred that the pigmented base or emulsion paint contains complexing agents and / or pH stabilizers in an amount of 0.1 to 10% by weight, in particular 0.2 to 8% by weight, preferably 0.5 to 5% by weight, based on the pigmented base. If the pigmented base, in particular the emulsion paint, contains a complexing agent, it is sufficient if the complexing agent is selected from the group of phosphonic acids, phosphonates, polyphosphates, hydroxycarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, amino acids, porphyrins, and mixtures thereof, preferably phosphonic acids, phosphonates, and mixtures thereof.

[0051] Particularly preferred are complexing agents selected from the group of HEDP 1-hydroxyethane-(1,1-diphosphonic acid) (HEDP), pentasodium aminotrimethylenephosphonate (Na5ATMP), tetrasodium hydroxyethanediphosphonate (Na4HEDP), and mixtures thereof. As far as the pH stabilizer is concerned, this may be selected from a variety of systems. However, particularly good results are obtained in the context of the present invention when the pH stabilizer is selected from the group of pH buffer systems, in particular basic pH buffer systems. For further details of the kit of parts according to the invention reference may be made to the above descriptions of the other aspects of the invention, which apply accordingly to the kit of parts according to the invention.

[0052] A further subject of the invention is also, according to a fourth aspect of the invention, a composition as described previously, in particular a composition for producing a pigment paste, in particular a semi-finished product and / or precursor, which contains an inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular an inorganic aluminium-containing compound, having a solubility in water at 20° C. of less than 5 g / l, in an amount of 20 to 90% by weight, based on the composition. The composition according to this aspect of the invention is preferably free of pigments. Moreover, the composition according to this aspect of the invention is preferably free of fillers. Moreover, the composition according to this aspect of the invention is preferably free of wetting agents and dispersing agents.

[0053] This further composition according to the invention, in particular the semi-finished product or precursor, allows a simple mixing of the pigment paste at the pigment paste manufacturer, which is then optimized for the respective system and machine. The further composition according to the invention requires only the addition of the pigment, as well as the wetting agent and, if necessary, the filler, to obtain the above-mentioned aqueous composition, in particular the pigment paste. Particularly good results are obtained in the context of the present invention when the further composition comprises an inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular an inorganic aluminum-containing compound, in an amount of 20 to 80% by weight, in particular 30 to 70% by weight, preferably 40 to 65% by weight, based on the composition. Likewise, in the context of the present invention, further compositions may be envisaged that comprise water in an amount of 5 to 75% by weight, in particular 10 to 60% by weight, preferably 15 to 50% by weight and more preferably 20 to 35% by weight, based on the composition. Preferably, in the context of the present invention, the further composition is defined as comprising a moisturizer. In this context, in particular the composition may be defined as comprising the moisturizer in an amount of from 0.5 to 15% by weight, in particular from 1 to 10% by weight, preferably from 1.5 to 8% by weight and more preferably from 1 to 5% by weight, based on the composition.

[0054] Likewise, within the scope of the present invention, it may be envisaged that the further composition comprises a pH adjuster. If the further composition comprises a pH adjuster, it is sufficient to establish whether the composition comprises the pH adjuster in an amount of 0.01 to 10% by weight, in particular 0.1 to 8% by weight, preferably 0.5 to 7% by weight, more preferably 1 to 6% by weight, based on the composition. Additionally, the composition may be defined as including an additive. When the composition comprises an additive, good results are obtained when the composition comprises the additive in an amount of 0.05 to 10% by weight, in particular 0.1 to 7% by weight, preferably 0.1 to 5% by weight, more preferably 0.2 to 3% by weight, based on the composition. For further details of this further composition according to the invention, reference may be made to the above descriptions of the other aspects of the invention, which apply accordingly to the further composition according to the invention. A further subject of the present invention is also, according to a fifth aspect of the invention, a composition, in particular a composition for spray application, containing an inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular an inorganic aluminium-containing compound, having a solubility of less than 5 g / l in water at 20° C., in an amount of 5 to 50% by weight, based on the composition. Preferably, the composition according to this aspect of the invention does not contain any pigments.

[0055] This composition, which is especially optimized for spray application, is not intended to be mixed with pigments, but can be used especially together with conventional pigment pastes to disinfect the steam space in the coloring machine. The steam space in the coloring machine, i.e. the unfilled areas of the pigment paste container, is sprayed with the composition according to the invention in order to effectively combat pathogens, especially mold. According to this aspect of the invention, preferably the composition is provided as comprising an inorganic compound of a trivalent metal, in particular an inorganic aluminium-containing compound, in an amount of 5 to 45% by weight, in particular 10 to 40% by weight, based on the composition. Likewise, it is preferred that the composition comprises water in an amount of 50-95% by weight, in particular 55-95% by weight, preferably 60-90% by weight, based on the composition. Compared with the pigment paste according to the invention and the semi-finished products described above, this composition, which is optimized for spray application, has a significantly lower viscosity and contains a significantly lower solids content. However, the compositions optimized for spray application according to the present invention provide a simple preservative-free and biocide-free approach to effectively protect the vapor space of pigment paste containers against pathogen ingress within the coloring machine. Within the scope of the present invention, the composition may be further defined as comprising a moisturizer, which, as will be readily apparent to a person skilled in the art, is selected from those moisturizers previously mentioned in the context of the aqueous composition according to the invention. If the composition comprises a humectant, good results are obtained when the composition contains humectant in an amount of 0.5 to 15% by weight, in particular 1 to 10% by weight, preferably 1.5 to 8% by weight, more preferably 1 to 5% by weight, based on the composition. Furthermore, in the context of the present invention, the composition may be defined as comprising additives, which are usually chosen from the same additives as those mentioned above in the context of the aqueous dispersion according to the invention. Preferably, the composition comprises the additive in an amount of 0.05 to 10% by weight, in particular 0.1 to 7% by weight, preferably 0.1 to 5% by weight, more preferably 0.2 to 3% by weight, based on the composition. For further details of this aspect, i.e. a composition optimized for spray application, reference may be made to the above descriptions of other aspects of the invention, which are applied in accordance with the invention with respect to the compositions according to the invention. The subject matter of the present invention is illustrated below in a non-limiting manner by means of examples of embodiments. EXAMPLES

[0056] Microbiological and color measurements were carried out on the pigment paste containing calcium aluminate sulfate and the results were compared with the same pigment paste containing a biocide.

[0057] 1.1 Pigment paste production A total of three different test series of pigment pastes, each with a different pigment, are carried out: Test series 1 contains an organic blue pigment, Test series 2 contains an iron oxide based black pigment, and Test series 3 contains a carbon black based black pigment.

[0058] In each test series, a standard pigment paste containing a biocide is prepared as a comparative example, as well as examples according to the invention containing different amounts of calcium aluminate sulfate with different particle sizes and particle size distributions. The comparative pastes and the pastes according to the invention differ in each case only in the replacement of the biocide with calcium aluminate sulfate. The chemicals used are given in Table 1 below, and the compositions of the pigment pastes are given in Tables 2 to 4.

[0059] [Table 1] TIFF2024540764000002.tif187144

[0060] [Table 2]

[0061] [Table 3]

[0062] [Table 4]

[0063] 1.2 Sterility test To test the pathogen resistance of the compositions according to the invention, compositions 1.1 to 1.3, 2.1 to 2.3 and 3.1 to 3.4 according to the invention together with the corresponding biocide-containing compositions 1, 2 and 3 are subjected to a sterility test according to DIN EN 17516. The results are listed in Table 5 below and show that compositions according to the invention contain biocidal properties comparable to biocide-containing compositions, even though they are free of preservatives and biocides.

[0064] [Table 5]

[0065] 1.3 Color Comparison The pigment pastes prepared in 1.1 are incorporated in 100 g of acrylate-based dispersion paint in amounts of 2-5 g to produce light colors and 10 g to produce solid colors, respectively, and applied to test panels, in each case in parallel with the pastes of the comparative example and according to the invention. After drying, the application of the paint is compared.

[0066] 1.3.1 Test Series 1 1.3.1.1 Comparison of pigment paste 1 (comparative) and 1.1 (according to the invention) a) Lightening 2 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint, applied in parallel with a 200 μm scraper, and then allowed to air dry. The color intensity is reduced by about 2% with the use of calcium aluminate sulfate. The color position remains approximately the same. There is no visual difference. b) Primary colors 10 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint. Parallel application is performed with a 200 μm scraper, followed by air drying. The color intensity is increased by about 1.4% with the use of calcium aluminate sulfate, and the color position also changes. It is noticeably redder, yellower and dirtier. A visual difference is visible.

[0067] 1.3.1.2 Comparison of pigment pastes 1 (comparative) and 1.2 (according to the invention) a) Lightening 2 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint, applied in parallel with a 200 μm scraper, and then allowed to air dry. The color intensity is reduced by about 12% with the use of calcium aluminate sulfate. The color position changes. It is significantly lighter, yellower and dirtier. A visual difference is also visible. b) Primary colors 10 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint. Parallel application is performed with a 200 μm scraper, followed by air drying. The color intensity does not change much with the use of calcium aluminate sulfate, but the color position does change. It is significantly yellower and dirtier. A visual difference is visible.

[0068] 1.3.1.3 Comparison of pigment pastes 1 (comparative) and 1.3 (according to the invention) a) Lightening 5 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint, applied in parallel with a 200 μm scraper, and then allowed to air dry. The color intensity is reduced by about 12% with the use of calcium aluminate sulfate. The color position changes. It is noticeably yellower and dirtier. A visual difference is visible. b) Primary colors 10 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint. Parallel application is performed with a 200 μm scraper, followed by air drying. The color intensity is not significantly changed by the use of calcium aluminate sulfate. However, the color locus becomes more yellow and dirtier. The visual difference is only faintly visible.

[0069] 1.3.2.1 Comparison of pigment pastes 2 (comparative) and 2.1 (according to the invention) a) Lightening 5 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint, applied in parallel with a 200 μm scraper, and then allowed to air dry. The color intensity is increased by about 5.6% by the use of calcium aluminate sulfate. The color position changes. It is significantly lighter, yellower and dirtier. A visual difference is also visible. b) Primary colors 10 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint. Parallel application is performed with a 200 μm scraper, followed by air drying. The color intensity is not significantly changed by the use of calcium aluminate sulfate. The color position remains the same. The visual difference is only faintly visible.

[0070] 1.3.2.2 Comparison of pigment pastes 2 (comparative) and 2.2 (according to the invention) a) Lightening 5 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint, applied in parallel with a 200 μm scraper, and then allowed to air dry. Neither color intensity nor color location is altered by the use of calcium aluminate sulfate. No visual difference is perceptible. b) Solid Shade 10 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint. Parallel application is performed with a 200 μm scraper, followed by air drying. Neither the color intensity nor the color position is altered by the use of calcium aluminate sulfate. A visual difference is clearly discernible.

[0071] 1.3.2.2 Comparison of pigment pastes 2 (comparative) and 2.3 (according to the invention) a) Lightening 5 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint, applied in parallel with a 200 μm scraper, and then allowed to air dry. The use of calcium aluminate sulfate increases color intensity by about 4%. The color position becomes slightly yellower and dirtier. The visual difference is barely perceptible. b) Primary colors 10 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint. Parallel application is performed with a 200 μm scraper, followed by air drying. The use of calcium aluminate sulfate reduces color intensity by approximately 1%. Color location changes only minimally. The visual difference is clearly discernible.

[0072] 1.3.3.1 Comparison of pigment pastes 3 (comparative) and 3.1 (according to the invention) a) Lightening 2 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint, applied in parallel with a 200 μm scraper, and then allowed to air dry. The use of calcium aluminate sulfate reduces color intensity by approximately 4%. Color location changes only minimally. Visual differences are barely perceptible. b) Primary colors 10 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint. Parallel application is performed with a 200 μm scraper, followed by air drying. Neither the color intensity nor the color position is altered by the use of calcium aluminate sulfate. A visual difference is clearly discernible.

[0073] 1.3.3.2 Comparison of pigment pastes 3 (comparative) and 3.2 (according to the invention) a) Lightening 2 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint, applied in parallel with a 200 μm scraper, and then allowed to air dry. The use of calcium aluminate sulfate reduces color intensity by approximately 4.5%. Color position changes only minimally. Visual differences are barely perceptible. b) Primary colors 10 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint. Parallel application is performed with a 200 μm scraper, followed by air drying. Neither color intensity nor color location is altered by the use of calcium aluminate sulfate. A visual difference is barely perceptible.

[0074] 1.3.3.3 Comparison of pigment pastes 3 (comparative) and 3.3 (according to the invention) a) Lightening 2 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint, applied in parallel with a 200 μm scraper, and then allowed to air dry. The use of calcium aluminate sulfate reduces the color intensity by about 2.4%. The color position does not change. A visual difference can be recognized. b) Primary colors 10 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint. Parallel application is performed with a 200 μm scraper, followed by air drying. Neither color intensity nor color location is altered by the use of calcium aluminate sulfate. A visual difference is barely perceptible.

[0075] 1.3.3.4 Comparison of pigment pastes 3 (comparative) and 3.4 (according to the invention) a) Lightening 2 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint, applied in parallel with a 200 μm scraper, and then allowed to air dry. The use of calcium aluminate sulfate reduces the color intensity by about 2%. The color position does not change. A visual difference can be seen. b) Primary colors 10 g of paste is mixed into 100 g of emulsion paint. Parallel application is performed with a 200 μm scraper, followed by air drying. Neither color intensity nor color location is altered by the use of calcium aluminate sulfate. A visual difference is barely perceptible.

[0076] 1.4 Conclusion It has been shown that it is possible to use higher amounts of calcium aluminate sulfate and still obtain pigment pastes that are equivalent in color to conventional biocide-containing pigment pastes. In particular, lustrous colors can be obtained by using micronized calcium aluminate sulfate.

Claims

1. 1. An aqueous composition, in particular a pigment paste for a coloring system, comprising: Contains inorganic compounds of trivalent metals having a solubility in water of less than 5 g / l at 20° C. The aqueous composition comprising:

2. 2. The aqueous composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal has a solubility in water at 20° C. in the range of 0.001 to 5 g / l, in particular 0.001 to 4 g / l, preferably 0.01 to 3 g / l, more preferably 0.1 to 2 g / l, more preferably 0.2 to 1.5 g / l, even more preferably 0.4 to 1 g / l.

3. 3. The aqueous composition according to claim 1, wherein the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal further contains a divalent metal.

4. 3. Aqueous composition according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal is chosen from calcium aluminates.

5. 3. Aqueous composition according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the inorganic compound of a trivalent metal is selected from the group of calcium aluminate hydrate, calcium aluminate sulphate and mixtures thereof, preferably calcium aluminate sulphate.

6. 3. Aqueous composition according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises a pH value of 9.5 or more, in particular a pH value in the range from 9.5 to 14, preferably from 9.5 to 13, more preferably from 9.5 to 12, more preferably from 9.5 to 11.5, even more preferably from 10.2 to 11.

4.

7. 3. Aqueous composition according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises a wetting agent or dispersing agent, in particular in an amount of 1 to 50% by weight, in particular 3 to 45% by weight, preferably 5 to 40% by weight and more preferably 8 to 35% by weight, based on the composition.

8. 3. Aqueous composition according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises a humectant, in particular in an amount of 0.1 to 30% by weight, in particular 1 to 25% by weight, preferably 2 to 20% by weight and more preferably 5 to 15% by weight, based on the composition.

9. 3. Aqueous composition according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the composition comprises a pigment, in particular the pigment is selected from the group of organic pigments, inorganic pigments and mixtures thereof.

10. 10. Aqueous composition according to claim 9, characterized in that it contains the pigment in an amount of 5 to 85% by weight, in particular 6 to 80% by weight, preferably 8 to 75% by weight and more preferably 10 to 70% by weight, based on the composition.

11. 3. Aqueous composition according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it is in particular at least substantially free of preservatives and / or in particular at least substantially free of biocides.

12. 3. Use of the aqueous composition according to claim 1 or 2 as a pigment paste for pigmented binder systems, in particular for paints, preferably emulsion paints.

13. 3. A kit of parts comprising a composition according to claim 1 or 2 and a colour base, in particular a paint, preferably an emulsion paint.

14. 14. The kit of parts according to claim 13, characterized in that the colouring base contains complexing agents and / or pH stabilizers, in particular the colouring base contains complexing agents and / or pH stabilizers in an amount of 0.1 to 10% by weight, in particular 0.2 to 8% by weight, preferably 0.5 to 5% by weight, based on the emulsion paint.

15. A composition, in particular a semi-finished product and / or precursor, for producing a composition according to claim 1 or 2, in particular for producing a pigment paste, characterized in that the composition contains an inorganic compound of a trivalent metal in an amount of 20 to 90% by weight, based on the composition, in particular an inorganic compound of a trivalent metal having a solubility in water of less than 5 g / l at 20°C.

16. 16. The composition according to claim 15, characterized in that it comprises an inorganic compound of a trivalent metal in an amount of 20 to 80% by weight, in particular 30 to 70% by weight, preferably 40 to 65% by weight, based on the composition.

17. 16. The composition according to claim 15, characterized in that it comprises water in an amount of 5 to 75% by weight, in particular 10 to 60% by weight, preferably 15 to 50% by weight, more preferably 20 to 35% by weight, based on the composition.

18. 16. The composition according to claim 15, characterized in that it comprises a humectant, in particular in an amount of 0.5 to 15% by weight, in particular 1 to 10% by weight, preferably 1.5 to 8% by weight, more preferably 1 to 5% by weight, based on the composition.

19. A composition, in particular a composition for spray application, characterized in that it contains an inorganic compound of a trivalent metal having a solubility of less than 5 g / l at 20° C. in water, in an amount of 5 to 50% by weight, based on the composition.

20. 20. The composition according to claim 19, characterized in that it contains an inorganic compound of a trivalent metal in an amount of 5 to 45% by weight, in particular 10 to 40% by weight, based on the composition.

21. 21. Composition according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that it comprises water in an amount of 50 to 95% by weight, in particular 55 to 95% by weight, preferably 60 to 90% by weight, based on the composition.