Specialty chemicals company LANXESS AG has developed a new iron oxide for the formulation of chemical toners used in the latest printer model lines.
The product named Bayoxide E TP LXS 5248 is characterized by high tinting strength, soft magnetic properties, good flowability and a very uniform particle size distribution. Chemical toners result in a better printed image and a higher yield.
Whereas toner has previously been manufactured by the extrusion and subsequent fine grinding of synthetic resins containing iron oxides, this new generation of toners is now being manufactured by polymerizing pigment-bearing, organic monomers in a suspension.
Besides thermoplastic resins, each magnetic one-component toner contains 30 to 60 percent black iron oxide pigments. Modern devices have strict toner requirements. The toner powder should be extremely homogeneous to ensure an optimal printed image. The size of the particles should be as close to identical as possible. Their precisely tuned magnetic and electrical properties must be stable and, in particular, they must not be affected by humidity. The correct color is just as important: Deep black with an elegant blue undertone is preferred today. To satisfy all of these requirements, the iron oxide used must crystallize under precisely controlled conditions.
Electrophotography has progressed by leaps and bounds since the introduction of xerographic copiers in the 1950s. Modern laser printers and copiers utilize the magnetism of the toner particles to transport within the device. The latest generation works with chemically manufactured toners, but can also process conventional, mechanically manufactured powders based on Bayoxide E TP LXS 5248.
According to LANXESS’s Inorganic Pigments business unit, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of iron oxide pigments offering a comprehensive range for the toner industry, the oxide quickly captured significant market share following its introduction in 2008, primarily in Japan. Since the new printer models gained a successful foothold in the market, a further increasing demand for the oxide can be expected.
About LANXESS
LANXESS is a leading specialty chemicals company with sales of EUR 6.58 billion in 2008 and currently around 14,800 employees in 21 countries. The company is represented at 44 production sites worldwide. The core business of LANXESS is the development, manufacturing and marketing of plastics, rubber, intermediates and specialty chemicals.
Forward looking statements
This news release contains forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by LANXESS AG management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.
Source: specialchem4polymers.com
