A fully robust continuous-feed industrial prototype reactor was designed capable of processing powder. Subsequent testing indicated that the system was incapable of surface engineering the organics, without causing decomposition of the pigment molecules, or the carbon black, without resulting in surface oxidation.
This project targets a synergistic synthesis of two established technologies, namely plasma surface engineering of pigments and the generation of atmospheric pressure, large volume, chemically reactive plasmas. The project output will comprise a new generic industrial process for the pigment industry allowing tailoring of pigment surfaces for optimum ink, paint, coating and other products. Not only will new inks/paints/coatings etc. result but a major environmental and commercial cost benefit will ensue with increased energy efficiency in the manufacturing process and a >50% reduction in the use of Volatile Organic Compounds.

Pigments, inks, etc. comprise ~40 billion ECU global industry and project output will confer major price, product performance and environmental benefits on EC industry.