Which grade for which step?
Each row lists the first grade we suggest for a trial, the values that matter on its technical data sheet, and an alternative.
| Process step | What the additive does | First choice | Key TDS values | Alternative |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pigment wetting | Lets water reach the pigment surface quickly | Sodium alkyl naphthalene sulphonate powder | Active content 60–80%; pH (10% solution) 5–8; sulfate 15–30% | Wetting agent BX, JFC or OT / AOT |
| Dispersion and grinding | Separates agglomerates and keeps the mill base fluid | Dispersant NNO Grade A | Disperse power 95% min; sodium sulfate 5% max; pH 7–9; Ca & Mg 0.4% max | NNO high-purity grade where low residuals are required (free formaldehyde below 50 ppm, free naphthalene below 5 ppm) |
| Disperse and vat dye pastes | Keeps the dye dispersed at high processing temperature | Dispersant MF | Thermal stability (Disperse Blue 79, 130 °C) grade 4–5; sodium sulfate 5% max; pH 7–9 | Dispersant NNO for lower-temperature systems |
| Dark pigments and carbon black | Lignin-based dispersion where product colour is not critical | Sodium lignosulfonate dispersant grade | Lignosulfonate 70% min (dry basis); water-insoluble matter 0.5% max; Ca & Mg 0.5% max | Carbon black granulation and dispersion |
Values are from the current TDS of each grade. Batch results are stated on the COA supplied with each shipment.
How to choose between grades
NNO Grade A, B or C?
The grades differ mainly in sodium sulfate: Grade A 5% max, Grade B 18% max, Grade C 22% max. Grade A also specifies disperse power 95% min (Grade B 90% min). Use Grade A where salt affects stability or film properties.
NNO or MF?
Both are anionic naphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensates. MF is made from methylnaphthalene and is specified for thermal stability with a disperse dye at 130 °C; NNO is specified for disperse power. MF is the usual choice for high-temperature dye dispersions.
When is lignosulfonate suitable?
Lignosulfonates are brown powders, so they are used for dark pigments, carbon black and industrial slurries rather than white or pastel paints.
What to send us for a grade recommendation
- Pigment or dye type and target particle size
- Binder system and pH
- Solids of the mill base or paste
- Process temperature
- Limits on salt, free formaldehyde or colour
- Monthly volume and packing
Related application guides
Frequently asked questions
Which dispersant is used for water-based pigment pastes?
Dispersant NNO Grade A is a common first trial: disperse power 95% min and sodium sulfate 5% max. Compare it with your current dispersant at equal dry dosage.
What is the difference between NNO and MF?
Both are naphthalene sulfonate condensates. MF is based on methylnaphthalene and qualified by thermal stability at 130 °C with a disperse dye; NNO is qualified by disperse power.
Can lignosulfonate be used in white paint?
Not usually. Lignosulfonates are brown and can colour the product. They are better suited to dark pigments, carbon black and industrial dispersions.
Which wetting agent should I try first?
Sodium alkyl naphthalene sulphonate powder (active 60–80%) is a common start; BX, JFC and OT/AOT are alternatives depending on foam and electrolyte limits.
Ask for TDS, SDS and a grade recommendation
Send your process details and we will reply with the grades to trial and their documents.
Last reviewed 27 October 2026. Specifications from Green Agrochem technical data sheets.