Zane Grigale-Soročina

Analysis of Pigment Process and Production Techniques for Use in Nail Polish Systems

This report explores two key manufacturing processes, and assesses multiple parameters for optimization of these processes. High shear dispersion using a rotor-stator style homogenizer and high-energy grinding using a basket type mill with zirconium balls as the grinding media were studied. The variation between grinding organic and inorganic pigments was assessed as they give different challenges and require different operations to produce successful results. Obtaining the correct particle size distribution of pigments for decorative coatings is of paramount importance for achieving a high quality, functioning, aesthetically pleasing finished product. This analysis will explore the de-agglomeration and dispersion of inorganic TiO2 and organic Red 6 pigments using basket milling technology. High energy basket mill grinding produced the smallest particle size and smallest particle size distribution comparing with high shear dispersion. Used technology allowed to achieve inorganic pigment TiO2 particle size and particle size distribution suitable for use in coatings on natural nails. For organic pigment Red 6 used technology should be customized.

Design for sustainability approach in product development – a case study using innovative nail polishes developed by a small enterprise

This article presents a study on Design for Sustainability (D4S) that we conducted in a small company assessing three innovative formulas of nail polish: conventional nail polish, hybrid polish, and gel polish. In light of the need to reduce environmental pollution, the negative social consequences of the production, and the use of various products, manufacturers are challenged to develop products that are economically feasible, attractive to consumers, cause no harm to workers and consumers, and are safe for the environment. In Europe, small and medium-sized companies (SMEs) produce more than half (by economic value) of all goods. However, are they able to implement D4S and do they have the appropriate tools for it? During our case study, we addressed the question about the existence of a suitable tool for SMEs to apply D4S. As the tool, we used a multicriterion matrix visualized as a star diagram and adjusted to the needs of a specific company. The newest development in nail coatings – hybrid polish – seems to be the best formula as it provides optimal technical performance and reduces health and environmental impacts. We demonstrated that decision-making is assisted by the use of a simple multi-criterion matrix in the form of a star diagram that integrates environmental and social aspects during the product design phase in a systematic and transparent way.

Influence of monomer on structure, processing and application characteristics of UV curable urethane acrylate composite coatings

Increased interest in the esthetical natural nail coatings have encouraged more in-depth studies particularly of UV curable coatings: their formation, processing, structure, characteristics and removing. Typical requirement for nail coatings is good adhesion, but preferably for the short time of functioning (usual 2-4 weeks). This study investigated the impact of four different monomers (tertiobutyl cyclohexyl acrylate (TBCHA), ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA), tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate (THFA), hydroxypropyl methacrylate (HPMA)) to viscosity of uncured mixture and degree of conversion, mechanical properties, surface gloss, micro hardness and adhesion loss for cured films. Specific coating application requires comparatively high coating flexibility and stability of deformation characteristics. This can be achieved with composition containing 30% of monomer TBCHA, what shows ultimate elongation eB = 0,23 - 0,24, modulus of elasticity E = 670-710 MPa and comparatively constant properties in 72 hours (ΔE = 1.3%, ΔeB=6.0%). A composition with 40% of TBCHA shows the fastest coating destruction achieving adhesion loss within 3 min.