The rheological component is likewise dependent on the particle size and the resulting surface area, but also on the structure and the surface chemistry. Finely divided pigment blacks have a relatively high surface area and therefore a strong thickening effect. If the particle size increases, the surface area decreases and the thickening effect is reduced. This means:
Decreasing particle size: high viscosity Increasing particle size: low viscosity
Structure: The structure of the pigment black is an important parameter for the production of printing inks. A number of quality attributes depend on the structure: dispersion properties, viscosity, flow properties, color density, gloss, rub resistance, and conductivity:
High-structure: high yield value, high viscosity and reduction in gloss Low-structure: good flow properties, low viscosity and increased gloss