A toner is a finely powdered substance used in laser printers and photocopiers to create printed images and text. Cyan, magenta, yellow and black (CMYK) are the four primary colours used in the printing industry, allowing a large variety of colours to be generated by mixing (Figure 1). Usage of fine particles with narrow particle size distribution in printing toners ensures good ink coverage and colour mixing, thin application, precise colour gradients as well as complete and streak-free coverage.

Precise characterization of toner particle size is essential for maintaining consistent material properties and ensuring optimal print quality and performance. Laser diffraction is one particle sizing technique for materials that covers particles ranging from hundreds of nanometres up to several millimetres in size. The technique calculates particle size by measuring the angular variation in the intensity of light scattered as a laser beam passes through a dispersed particulate system.

Partica LA-960V2 (Fig2) from HORIBA Scientific presents the latest advances in laser diffraction technology with its innovative design and ultimate performance. The system offers many advantages, including a high level of precision, fast response, no requirement for calibration, and a wide measurable particle diameter range of 10 nm to 3000 µm.

Overlay of triplicate Particle size distribution of black toner from two sample set is included here. Narrow size distribution with major population below 15 micron ensures optimal performance of the toner with reliable adhesion on the print medium.

This highlights the efficiency of HORIBA Partica LA-960V2 laser diffraction particle size distribution analyser in analysing toner powder with excellent repeatability and reproducibility. A detail application note on toner characterization is available in HORIBA website.

Link: Particle Size Distribution of Black Toner - HORIBA