Pigment Suspension Stabilization Using Phosphoric Acid Esters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pigment suspensions for cosmetic applications face challenges in maintaining stability against agglomeration, especially with iron oxide-based pigments, which require high shear forces for distribution and tend to agglomerate post-processing.
Innovation Solution
A pigment suspension comprising at least one coloring compound (such as iron oxide or organic pigments), a phosphoric acid ester as dispersant, and water, which effectively stabilizes the pigments against agglomeration and allows for their use in cosmetic agents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If ground pigment powders are used to produce inorganic pigment suspensions, then the pigments can be distributed in the carrier medium, but the pigments have a strong tendency to form agglomerates and require high shear forces for even distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The pigment particles are pre-coated with a dispersant during the grinding process before the suspension is finalized. This preliminary action ensures that the dispersant is already present on the particle surfaces to prevent agglomeration, eliminating the need for subsequent high shear force treatment and maintaining long-term stability.
Solution Approach 2:
A dispersant is introduced as an intermediary substance between the pigment particles and the carrier medium. The dispersant adsorbs onto the pigment surfaces, creating a protective layer that prevents direct particle-to-particle contact and reduces the tendency to agglomerate, thereby stabilizing the suspension without requiring continuous high energy input.
2Stability of the object's composition
If dispersants are added to prevent agglomeration, then pigment stability is improved, but the complexity of the formulation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dispersant selected for this invention performs multiple functions simultaneously: it prevents pigment agglomeration, provides pH buffering capacity, and ensures compatibility with cosmetic formulations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate additives, thereby maintaining formulation simplicity while achieving comprehensive stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention optimizes specific parameters of the dispersant, such as its molecular structure, concentration range, and pH properties, to achieve maximum dispersing efficiency at minimal doses. By carefully controlling these parameters, the formulation maintains simplicity while ensuring robust prevention of agglomeration throughout the product shelf life.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The use of phosphoric acid esters as dispersants in the pigment suspension ensures stable dispersion of pigments with particle diameters in the range of 100 to 1,000 nm, preventing agglomeration and enhancing the durability and gray coverage of hair dyes.
Implementation Method 1
A distinction is made between steric and electrostatic stabilization by the dispersant
Implementation Method 2
A distinction is made between steric and electrostatic stabilization by the dispersant
Implementation Method 3
the dispersant forms a protective shell around everyone, dispersed pigment particle
Data Source
AI summary
A pigment suspension, a cometic agent obtainable from a pigment suspension, and a kit-of-parts containing a pigment suspension are provided. A pigment suspension includes (a) at least one coloring compound selected from the group consisting of pigments, (b) at least one phosphoric ester, and (c) water.