Particle flakes

The most frequently used method for particle size distribution is based on an optical particle counter. Determination of monosize particles, flakes, and fibers is not accurate. In these cases either electron or optical microscopy are the most suitable techniques. 

Continuous Phase n (1) In a Suspension or Emulsion the continuous phase refers to the liquid medium in which the solid or second-liquid particles are dispersed. The solid particles or droplets are called the disperse phase, (2) In a plastic fiUed or reinforced with solid particles, flakes or fibers, the binding resin is the continuous phase. 

Adhesive Distribution. The adhesive is frequently applied as a continuous film in plywood and laminated lumber using roller spreaders and curtain coaters. Spray applications rapidly are becoming the standard for construction plywood. Particle, flake, and fi-berboards are spot welded by small amounts of adhesive, relative to surface area, applied as liquid droplets with spray nozzles or applied as powder particles with a molten slack wax or wax emulsion to temporarily bind the powder particles to the wood surface. 

Many of the fillers used in industry are anisotropic in character. Depending on the shape of fillers, they are subdivided into isotropic particles, flakes, and fibers. Anisotropic particles may take on states of orientation because of flow and packing processes. Whether developed during flow or processing, particle orientation influences phenomena ranging from rheological properties to compound processability in industrial processing equipment, electrical characteristics, and mechanical performance. 

Molded-in decorative effects are commonly used in thermoset moldings (e.g., boats, spas, eyeglass frames). Recently molded-in speckle and fiber decorative effects have been molded into thermoplastics for appliances and housewares. These rely upon dispersed particles (flake, metallized films, fibers) to provide the decorative effect. Techniques to maximize concentration of the decorative material near the surface and to control the dispersion have been facilitated by the improvement of injection molding process control systems. The application of decorative effects to a broader range of auto interior surfaces is encouraging the evaluation of molded-in decorative effects, especially in noncarpet, TPO flooring where more randomized designs are acceptable. 

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