Preparation and characterization of ZnFe1.2Cr0.8O4 water-based ceramic inks obtained using a polymeric dispersant

Reddish-brown water-based ceramic inks composed of ZnFe1.2Cr0.8O4 pigment, a polymeric dispersant AD01, and some additives, were successfully obtained by grinding method. The effect of dispersant on ceramic inks, especially particle size and distribution were investigated. The grinding and dispersion mechanism of particles in the grinding processing has been discussed. The stability of particles in ceramic inks was also evaluated. Moreover, the inkjet printing performances of the water-based ceramic inks were predicted by using the dimensionless parameters Reynolds number (Re), Weber number (We), and Ohnesorge number (Oh). The results show that the water-based ceramic inks with appropriate viscosity (12.05-23.05 mPa center dot s), surface tension (27.7-31.7 mN/m) and density (1.331-1.348 g/cm(3)) can satisfy the inkjet printing requirements, and show excellent coloring ability on ceramic glaze, indicating that the water-based ceramic inks prepared have a promising application prospect.