Batch/Continuous Production of Toner

摘要

A process for forming toner using an emulsion/aggregation scheme wherein particle aggregation occurs in a batch reactor and coalescence occurs in a continuous reactor. In embodiments, a continuous reactor comprises four sections joined in series.

主权项

1. A semi-continuous process for producing a toner particle of circularity at least about 0.950 comprising:
(a) combining a resin, an optional colorant, an optional wax and an optional surfactant to produce an aggregated particle in a slurry in a batch reactor; and then (b) treating said aggregated particle in said slurry to coalesce said aggregated particle to produce said toner particle in a continuous reactor, wherein said continuous reactor comprises in series:
(i) a first portion for facilitating introduction of the aggregated particle in said slurry into the continuous reactor;(ii) a second portion for facilitating stopping aggregated particle growth;(iii) optionally, a third portion for facilitating temperature increase of said slurry; and(iv) a fourth portion for facilitating particle coalescence.