ABSTRACT
The preparation of dispersions of magnetic oxide particles for use in magnetic recording materials was discussed. Generally, the magnetic particles are dispersed in an organic solvent/binder matrix in preparation for further processing. The role of the surfactant is to act as an effective dispersant for the magnetic oxide particles. This chapter addresses both technical and communication issues; the communication issues being one of general concern in applying surfactants to new and emerging technology. The level of communication should approach or exceed that of the paint coating industry where a specific product can be quickly supplied for a specific application. Greater effort in improving surfactants will be needed in order to allow particulate coating technology to dominate over the sputtering emission method of processing magnetic materials.
