Steam Injection Nozzle for Emulsification/Distillation

摘要

A process and device for making a latex emulsion suitable for use in a toner composition which uses Steam Injection Emulsification (SIE) are disclosed, including a steam injection nozzle system, where the nozzle has one or more holes for releasing steam into an emulsion, which induces turbulence in the emulsion to facilitate emulsification, solvent distillation or both to produce latex emulsions for making toner.

主权项

1. A method of phase inversion emulsification (PIE) comprising:
a) combining a resin, an organic solvent and an optional neutralizing agent to form a mixture in a reaction vessel; b) injecting steam into said reaction vessel inducing turbulence in said mixture, wherein said injecting is by a steam injection nozzle selected from the group consisting of an “L” shaped nozzle, an “I” shaped nozzle and an “S” shaped nozzle; c) mixing said mixture to emulsify said mixture; and c) reducing pressure within said reaction vessel to remove said solvent, wherein said steam injection nozzle provides increased surface contact areas between steam and said mixture relative to contacting steam and said mixture without said nozzle, whereby removal efficiency via vacuum for each of the at least two solvents is equivalent.