A water-based dispersant keeps solid particles evenly spread in water, so a slurry, paste or dye bath stays fluid and does not settle. Dispersant MF is one such product: an anionic methylnaphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensate that dissolves in water, acid, alkali and hard water and adds little foam.
How a Water-Based Dispersant Works
- It adsorbs on the particle surface.
- Its charged groups make the particles repel each other (electrostatic stabilisation).
- Particles stay apart, so viscosity falls and settling slows.
Common Water-Based Dispersants
| Type | Typical use |
|---|---|
| Dispersant MF | Disperse, vat and reactive dyes; high-temperature dyeing |
| Dispersant NNO | Dyes, pigments, pesticides |
| Lignosulfonates | Low-cost dispersant for minerals, pesticides, dyes |
| Polymeric (polycarboxylate, polyacrylate) | Coatings, inks, ceramics; steric stabilisation |
Dispersant MF Specification
| Parameter | Typical value (GAC-MF) |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Dark brown powder |
| Composition | Methylnaphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensate, sodium salt |
| Ion type | Anionic |
| Thermal stability (Disperse Blue 79, 130 °C) | Grade 4–5 |
| Sodium sulfate | 5% max |
| pH (1% solution) | 7–9 |
| Insolubles in water | 0.05% max |
| Calcium and magnesium | 4000 ppm max |
Using It
- Compatible with anionic and nonionic surfactants; do not combine with cationic dyes or cationic surfactants (per the TDS).
- Set the level by trial against your current dispersant; there is no single correct dose.
- Keep bags closed: the powder takes up moisture.
Product details: Dispersant MF product page. Dye-house use: MF dispersant for textile chemical additives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a water-based dispersant?
An additive that keeps solid particles dispersed in water so the mixture stays fluid and stable.
Is Dispersant MF water soluble?
Yes. Its TDS describes it as soluble in water, acid, alkali and hard water.
Can Dispersant MF be used with cationic products?
No. The TDS says it is compatible with anionic and nonionic surfactants but not with cationic dyes or surfactants.
