Compositions comprising one or more inorganic particulate materials are used widely in a number of applications. For example, inorganic particulate materials may be used as fillers in coating compositions, paints, plastics and sealants. For example, inorganic particulate materials may be used in coating compositions such as barrier coating compositions, which prevent or reduce the permeation of a selected substrate such as gas, vapour or liquid. Inorganic particulate materials may also, for example, be used in paper coating compositions.

The presence of the inorganic particulate material in the barrier coating composition or paper coating composition may affect the properties of the composition, such as colour, opacity, brightness, gloss, rheology or hardness. Alternatively or additionally, the use of inorganic particulate materials in these compositions may affect the barrier properties of the composition (the ability of the composition to prevent or reduce permeation of a selected substrate such as gas, vapour or liquid).

Barrier coating compositions and paper coating compositions usually require the presence of one or more binders such as latex in order to provide the composition with the desired barrier properties. It is generally desirable to reduce the amount of binder used in the barrier coating composition or paper coating composition for cost and/or environmental reasons. The addition of compositions comprising inorganic particulate material to barrier coating or paper coating compositions may enable the amount of binder required in the composition to be reduced.

It is thus desirable to provide an alternative and/or an improved composition comprising inorganic particulate material which is suitable for use in a barrier coating composition and/or a paper coating composition. For example, it may be desirable to provide a composition comprising inorganic particulate material which can be used to reduce the amount of binder required in a barrier coating and/or paper coating composition.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a composition comprising at least one inorganic particulate material (e.g. calcium carbonate), wherein the inorganic particulate material in said composition has a CPVC point of less than about 29 pph binder.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for making a composition comprising at least one inorganic particulate material (e.g. a composition of the first aspect of the present invention), comprising combining a first inorganic particulate material component (e.g. calcium carbonate) having a first particle size distribution with a second inorganic particulate material component (e.g. calcium carbonate) having a second particle size distribution. In certain embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the method further comprises combining a third inorganic particulate material component (e.g. calcium carbonate) having a third particle size distribution with the first and/or second inorganic particulate material components. In certain embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the method further comprises combining a third inorganic particulate material component (e.g. calcium carbonate) having a third particle size distribution and a fourth inorganic particulate material component (e.g. calcium carbonate) having a fourth particle size distribution with the first and/or second inorganic particulate material components. In certain embodiments, a fifth inorganic particulate material component (e.g. calcium carbonate) having a fifth particle size distribution may be combined with the first and/or second and/or optional third and/or optional fourth inorganic particulate material components.

In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a composition comprising at least one inorganic particulate material obtainable or obtained by the method of the second aspect of the present invention.

In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a use of a composition of any aspect or embodiment of the present invention in a barrier coating composition.

In accordance with a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a barrier coating composition comprising a binder and a composition of any aspect or embodiment of the present invention.

In accordance with a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a use of a composition of any aspect or embodiment of the present invention in a paper coating composition.

In accordance with a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a paper coating composition comprising a binder and a composition of any aspect or embodiment of the present invention.

In accordance with an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a product coated with a composition of any aspect or embodiment of the present invention.

In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for making a barrier coating composition or a paper coating composition comprising combining a composition of any aspect or embodiment of the present invention with a binder.

In accordance with a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for making a coated product, comprising providing a product to be coated and coating the product with a composition of any aspect or embodiment of the present invention (e.g. a barrier coating composition or paper coating composition).

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a CPVC point equal to or less than about 28 pph binder. In certain embodiments, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a CPVC point equal to or less than about 25 pph binder. In certain embodiments, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a CPVC point equal to or less than about 23 pph binder. In certain embodiments, the binder used to measure the CPVC point is latex. In certain embodiments, the binder used to measure the CPVC point is styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) latex.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a mean pore size equal to or less than about 1.1 μηι. In certain embodiments, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a mean pore size equal to or less than about 1.0 μηι. In certain embodiments, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a mean pore size ranging from about 0.01 μηι to about 1.1 μηι.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a coating pore volume equal to or less than about 0.4 cm3g"1. In certain embodiments, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a coating pore volume equal to or less than about 0.15 cm3g"1. In certain embodiments, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a coating pore volume equal to or less than about 0.14 cm3g"1.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a steepness factor equal to or less than about 60. In certain embodiments, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a steepness factor equal to or less than about 30. In certain embodiments, the composition has a steepness factor equal to or less than about 25.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the at least one inorganic particulate material has a shape factor equal to or less than about 20. In certain

embodiments, the at least one inorganic particulate material has a shape factor equal to or less than about 10. In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the at least one inorganic particulate material has a shape factor equal to or less than about 5.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the at least one inorganic particulate material is calcium carbonate.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a d5o ranging from about 0.1 μηι to about 3.0 μηι. In certain embodiments, the composition has a dso ranging from about 0.2 μηι to about 2.0 μηι. In certain embodiments, the composition has a dso ranging from about 0.2 μηι to about 1.5 μηι. In certain embodiments, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a dso ranging from about 0.2 μηι to about 1.0 μηι. In certain embodiments, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a dso ranging from about 0.2 μηι to about 0.8 μηι.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the composition has a coating stain length ranging from about 9 cm to about 12 cm. In certain embodiments, the composition has a coating stain length ranging from about 9 cm to about 10 cm.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the composition comprises a first inorganic particulate material component having a first particle size distribution and a second inorganic particulate material component having a second particle size distribution.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a composition comprising a first inorganic particulate material component having a first particle size distribution and a second inorganic particulate material component having a second particle size distribution.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the first inorganic particulate material component is calcium carbonate. In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the second inorganic particulate material component is calcium carbonate. In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, both the first and second inorganic particulate material components are calcium carbonate.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the steepness factor of the total inorganic particulate material in the composition is equal to or lower than the steepness factor of the inorganic particulate material component having the lowest steepness factor.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, wherein the composition comprises a first inorganic particulate material component having a first particle size distribution and a second inorganic particulate material component having a second particle size distribution, the first inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or more than about 15. In certain embodiments, the first inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or more than about 25. In certain embodiments, the first inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or more than about 30. In certain embodiments, the first inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or less than about 80. In certain embodiments, the first inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or less than about 60. In certain embodiments, the first inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or less than about 40.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, wherein the composition comprises a first inorganic particulate material component having a first particle size distribution and a second inorganic particulate material component having a second particle size distribution, the second inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or more than about 15. In certain embodiments, the second inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or more than about 25. In certain embodiments, the second inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or more than about 30. In certain embodiments, the second inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or less than about 80. In certain embodiments, the second inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or less than about 60. In certain

embodiments, the second inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or less than about 40.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, wherein the composition comprises a first inorganic particulate material component having a first particle size distribution and a second inorganic particulate material component having a second particle size distribution, the first inorganic particulate material component has a dso ranging from about 0.1 μηι to about 3.0 μηι. In certain embodiments, the first inorganic particulate material component has a dso ranging from about 0.3 μηι to about 2.0 μηι. In certain embodiments, the first inorganic particulate material component has a dso ranging from about 0.3 μηι to about 1.5 μηι.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, wherein the composition comprises a first inorganic particulate material component having a first particle size distribution and a second inorganic particulate material component having a second particle size distribution, the second inorganic particulate material component has a d5o ranging from about 0.1 μηι to about 3.0 μηι. In certain embodiments, the second inorganic particulate material has a dso ranging from about 0.1 μηι to about 2.0 μηι. In certain embodiments, the second inorganic particulate material has a dso ranging from about 0.1 μηι to about 1.0 μηι. In certain embodiments, the second inorganic particulate material has a dso ranging from about 0.1 μηι to about 0.5 μηι.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the composition further comprises a third inorganic particulate material component having a third particle size distribution. In certain embodiments, the third inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or more than about 15. In certain embodiments, the third inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or more than about 25. In certain embodiments, the third inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or more than about 30. In certain embodiments, the third inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or less than about 80. In certain embodiments, the third inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or less than about 60. In certain embodiments, the third inorganic particulate material component has a steepness factor equal to or less than about 40.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, wherein the composition comprises a first inorganic particulate material component having a first particle size distribution, a second inorganic particulate material component having a second particle size distribution and a third inorganic particulate material component having a third particle size distribution, the third calcium carbonate component has a dso ranging from about 0.1 μηι to about 3.0 μηι. In certain embodiments, the third inorganic particulate material component has a dso ranging from about 0.1 μηι to about 2.5 μηι. In certain embodiments, the third inorganic particulate material component has a dso ranging from about 0.1 μηι to about 2.0 μηι. In certain embodiments, the third inorganic particulate material component has a dso ranging from about 0.1 μηι to about 1.5 μηι.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the first and/or second and/or third inorganic particulate material component(s) each individually have a shape factor equal to or less than about 20. In certain embodiments, each of the first and/or second and/or third inorganic particulate material component(s) each individually have a shape factor equal to or less than about 10. In certain embodiments, each of the first and/or second and/or third inorganic particulate material component(s) each individually have a shape factor equal to or less than about 5.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, wherein the composition comprises a first inorganic particulate material component having a first particle size distribution, a second inorganic particulate material component having a second particle size distribution, and optionally a third inorganic particulate material component having a third particle size distribution, the first inorganic particulate material component is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 50 wt% to about 90 wt%. In certain embodiments, the first inorganic particulate material component is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 55 wt% to about 85 wt%. In certain embodiments, the first inorganic particulate material component is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 60 wt% to about 80 wt%.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, wherein the composition comprises a first inorganic particulate material component having a first particle size distribution, a second inorganic particulate material component having a second particle size distribution, and optionally a third inorganic particulate material component having a third particle size distribution, the second inorganic particulate material component is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 10 wt% to about 50 wt%. In certain embodiments, the second inorganic particulate material component is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 15 wt% to about 45 wt%. In certain embodiments, the second inorganic particulate material component is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 20 wt% to about 40 wt%.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, wherein the composition comprises a first inorganic particulate material component having a first particle size distribution, a second inorganic particulate material component having a second particle size distribution, and a third inorganic particulate material component having a third particle size distribution, the third inorganic particulate material component is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 5 wt% to about 30 wt%. In certain embodiments, the third inorganic particulate material component is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 10 wt% to about 30 wt%. In certain embodiments, the third inorganic particulate material component is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 15 wt% to about 30 wt%. In certain embodiments, the third inorganic particulate material component is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 5 wt% to about 15 wt%.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the composition further comprises a fourth inorganic particulate material component. In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the composition further comprises a fifth inorganic particulate material component. In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the composition further comprises a sixth inorganic particulate material component.

In certain embodiments of the fifth and/or seventh aspects of the present invention, the barrier composition and/or paper coating composition comprises equal to or less than about 50 pph of binder. In certain embodiments, the barrier or paper coating composition comprises equal to or less than about 40 pph of binder. In certain embodiments, the barrier or paper coating composition comprises equal to or less than about 35 pph of binder. In certain embodiments, the binder is latex. In certain embodiments, the binder is polyvinyl alcohol.

In certain embodiments of the eighth or tenth aspect of the present invention, the product is in the form of paper, board, card, or paper board.

The details, examples and preferences provided in relation to any particular one or more of the stated aspects of the present invention apply equally to all aspects of the present invention. Any combination of the embodiments, examples and preferences described herein in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the present invention unless otherwise indicated herein, or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In certain embodiments of the present invention, at least an alternative composition comprising inorganic particulate material (e.g. calcium carbonate) is provided, which is suitable for use in a barrier coating composition or paper coating composition.

It has surprisingly been found that in certain embodiments, the compositions of the present invention demonstrate improved barrier properties in comparison to alternative compositions comprising inorganic particulate material. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is thought that the compositions of the present invention show an increased level of packing in comparison to alternative compositions comprising inorganic particulate material, which may contribute to the barrier properties of said compositions.

Thus, in certain embodiments of the present invention, a composition comprising inorganic particulate material is provided which is advantageous in that it enables a reduced amount of binder to be used in a barrier coating and/or paper coating composition in comparison to an alternative composition comprising inorganic particulate material.

Compositions comprising calcium carbonate

There is provided herein a composition comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of inorganic particulate material (e.g. calcium carbonate).

In certain aspects, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a CPVC point of less than 29 pph binder (e.g. latex such as SBR latex).

In certain aspects, the composition is obtained by or is obtainable by a method comprising combining a first inorganic particulate material component having a first particle size distribution with a second inorganic particulate material component having a second particle size distribution. Optionally, the composition is obtained by or is obtainable by further combining a third inorganic particulate material component having a third particle size distribution with the first and/or second inorganic particulate material components. Optionally, the composition is obtained by or is obtainable by further combining a fourth, optionally a fifth, optionally a sixth inorganic particulate material component with the first and/or second and/or third inorganic particulate material components.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the composition is an aqueous suspension. In certain embodiments, the solids content of the aqueous suspension is from about 15% to about 80% by weight of the composition. For example, the solids content of the composition may be from about 50% to about 80% by weight, for example from about 60% to about 79% by weight, for example from about 65% to about 78% by weight of the composition.

In other embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the composition is a dry mineral blend.

In certain embodiments, the composition may initially be in the form of an aqueous suspension and the aqueous suspension may then be treated to remove at least a portion or substantially all of the water to form a partially dried or essentially completely dried product. For example, at least about 10% by volume of water in the aqueous suspension may be removed from the aqueous suspension, for example, at least about 20% by volume, or at least about 30% by volume, or least about 40% by volume, or at least about 50% by volume, or at least about 60% by volume, or at least about 70% by volume or at least about 80% by volume or at least about 90% by volume, or at least about 100% by volume of water in the aqueous suspension may be removed. Any suitable technique can be used to remove water from the aqueous suspension including,

for example, by gravity or vacuum-assisted drainage, with or without pressing, or by evaporation, or by filtration, or by a combination of these techniques. The partially dried or essentially completely dried product will comprise inorganic particulate material and any other optional additives that may have been added to the aqueous suspension prior to drying. The partially dried or essentially completely dried product may be stored or packaged for sale. The partially dried or essentially completely dried product may be optionally re-hydrated and incorporated in barrier coating compositions and paper coating compositions, as described herein.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the solids content of the composition consists essentially of or consists of inorganic particulate material, for example calcium carbonate. In other embodiments, the solids content of the composition comprises inorganic particulate material, for example calcium carbonate. In certain embodiments, the composition may further comprise other solids, such as other inorganic particulate materials. For example, the composition may further comprise one or more other inorganic particulate materials which are suitable for use as fillers in papermaking compositions.

In certain embodiments, for example when the inorganic particulate material (e.g. calcium carbonate) is obtained from naturally occurring sources, it may be that some mineral impurities will contaminate the ground material. For example, naturally occurring calcium carbonate occurs in association with other minerals. In general, however, the inorganic particulate material may contain less than about 5 % by weight, for example less than about 3 % by weight, for example less than about 2 % by weight of other mineral impurities based on the total dry weight of inorganic particulate material in the composition. For example, the inorganic particulate material may contain less than about 1 % by weight of other mineral impurities based on the total dry weight of inorganic particulate material in the composition.

Inorganic Particulate Material

Any inorganic particulate material capable of being provided in an aqueous suspension may be used in certain embodiments of the present invention. Suitable inorganic particulate materials may be selected from one or more of the following: alkaline earth metal carbonate (for example dolomite, i.e. CaMg(CC>3)2), metal sulphate (for example gypsum), metal silicate, metal oxide (for example iron oxide, chromia, antimony trioxide or silica), metal hydroxide, wollastonite, bauxite, talc (for example, French chalk), mica, zinc oxide (for example, zinc white or Chinese white), silica, titanium dioxide (for example, anatase or rutile), zinc sulphide, calcium carbonate (for example whiting, precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC), ground calcium carbonate (GCC) or surface-modified calcium carbonate), barium sulphate (for example, barite, blanc fixe or process white), alumina hydrate (for example, alumina trihydrate, light alumina hydrate, lake white or transparent white), clay (for example kaolin, calcined kaolin, China clay or bentonite), and combinations thereof. The inorganic particulate material may be selected from any one or more of the materials listed. The at least one inorganic particulate material may comprise a blend of any combination of the listed materials. Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention may tend to be discussed in terms of calcium carbonate. However, the invention should not be construed as being limited to such embodiments.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the calcium carbonate is, for example, ground calcium carbonate (GCC) or precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC). The calcium carbonate may, for example, be obtained from naturally occurring mineral sources, for example limestone, chalk, marble and travertine, for example by grinding. The PCC may also be ground. A combination of two or more calcium carbonates may be used. For example, a combination of ground calcium carbonate and precipitated calcium carbonate may be used. The combination of two or more calcium carbonates may be prepared by co-grinding.

The calcium carbonate may optionally be surface-modified. For example, the calcium carbonate may be coated. The coating may consist of, consist essentially of, or comprise a silane or any salt thereof, for example an organic silane. The alkaline earth metal carbonate may be coated with a fatty acid or salt thereof. For example, the alkaline earth metal carbonate may be coated with stearate. The level of coating may be about 0.1 to about 10 wt% based on the total weight of the coated particulate mineral additive, for example between about 0.1 and about 3 wt%, for example between about 0.5 or 0.6 or 0.7 or 0.8 and about 2.0 wt% e.g. about 1.5 wt%. The term "coating" used herein is to be understood broadly, and is not limited, for example, to uniform coatings or to coatings which cover the entire surface area of a particle. Particles in which discrete regions of the surface are modified with a coating will be understood as being coated within the terms of certain embodiments of the present invention.

Ground calcium carbonate (GCC) is typically obtained by grinding a mineral source such as chalk, marble or limestone, which may be followed by a particle size classification step, in order to obtain a product having the desired degree of fineness. The particulate solid material may be ground autogenously, i.e. by attrition between the particles of the solid material themselves, or alternatively, in the presence of a particulate grinding medium comprising particles of a different material from the calcium carbonate to be ground.

Wet grinding of calcium carbonate involves the formation of an aqueous suspension of the calcium carbonate which may then be ground, optionally in the presence of a suitable dispersing agent. Reference may be made to, for example, EP-A-614948 (the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety) for more information regarding the wet grinding of calcium carbonate.

PCC may be used as the source of particulate calcium carbonate in certain embodiments of the present invention, and may be produced by any of the known methods available in the art. TAPPI Monograph Series No 30, "Paper Coating Pigments", pages 34-35 describes the three main commercial processes for preparing precipitated calcium carbonate which is suitable for use in preparing products for use in the paper industry, but may also be used in connection with the certain embodiments of the present invention. In all three processes, limestone is first calcined to produce quicklime, and the quicklime is then slaked in water to yield calcium hydroxide or milk of lime. In the first process, the milk of lime is directly carbonated with carbon dioxide gas. This process has the advantage that no by-product is formed, and it is relatively easy to control the properties and purity of the calcium carbonate product. In the second process, the milk of lime is contacted with soda ash to produce, by double decomposition, a precipitate of calcium carbonate and a solution of sodium hydroxide. The sodium hydroxide should be substantially completely separated from the calcium carbonate if this process is to be commercially attractive. In the third main commercial process, the milk of lime is first contacted with ammonium chloride to give a calcium chloride solution and ammonia gas.

The calcium chloride solution is then contacted with soda ash to produce, by double decomposition, precipitated calcium carbonate and a solution of sodium chloride.

The process for making PCC results in very pure calcium carbonate crystals and water. The crystals can be produced in a variety of different shapes and sizes, depending on the specific reaction process that is used. The three main forms of PCC crystals are aragonite, rhombohedral and scalenohedral, all of which are suitable for use in certain embodiments of the present invention, including mixtures thereof.

The inorganic particulate material in the composition may have a shape factor equal to or less than about 20. For example, the inorganic particulate material in the composition may have a shape factor equal to or less than about 15, for example equal to or less than about 12, for example equal to or less than about 10, for example equal to or less than about 7, for example equal to or less than about 5, for example equal to or less than about 2.

"Shape Factor", as used herein, is a measure of the ratio of particle diameter to particle thickness for a population of particles of varying size and shape. Unless otherwise stated, shape factor is measured using the electrical conductivity methods, apparatuses, and equations described in U.S. Patent No. 5,576,617, which is incorporated herein by reference. As the technique for determining shape factor is further described in the '617 patent, the electrical conductivity of a composition of an aqueous suspension of orientated particles under test is measured as the composition flows through a vessel. Measurements of the electrical conductivity are taken along one direction of the vessel and along another direction of the vessel transverse to the first direction. Using the difference between the two conductivity measurements, the shape factor of the particulate material under test is determined.

Further Additives

The composition may comprise further additives. In particular, when the composition is in the form of an aqueous suspension, the composition may comprise further additives. For example, the composition may further comprise further additives selected from one or more dispersing agents, one or more biocides, one or more suspending aids, one or

more thickening agents, one or more binders, one or more anti-settling agents one or more salts or one or more other additives.

For example, the one or more dispersing agent may be made from monomers and/or co-monomers selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, itaconic acid, crotonic acid, fumaric acid, maleic anhydride acid, isocrotonic acid, aconitic acid (cis or trans), mesaconic acid, sinapinic acid, undecylenic acid, angelic acid, canellic acid, hydroxyacrylic acid, acrolein, acrylamide, acrylonitrile, dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate, vinylpyrrolidone, vinylcaprolactam, ethylene, propylene, isobutylene, diisobutylene, vinyl acetate, styrene, [alpha]-methyl styrene, methyl vinyl ketone, the esters of acrylic and methacrylic acids and mixtures thereof. The dispersing agent may, for example, be polyacrylic acid and/or polymethacrylic acid.

For example, the one or more biocides may be selected from a silver-based biocide, an aldehyde-releasing biocide, an aldehyde-based biocide, a phenolic biocide, an isothiazoline biocide, or any mixture thereof. The biocide may be selected from one or more of the following: formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, glyoxal, succinaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, 2-propenal, phthalic dialdehyde and mixtures thereof, and in certain embodiments is formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, benzyl alcoholmono(poly)-hemiformal, ethyleneglycolhemiformal (EGHF), [1 ,2-Ethanediylbis(oxy)]-bis-methanol, tetrahydro-1 ,3,4,6-tetrakis(hydroxylmethyl)imidazo [4,5-d]imidazole-2,5 (1 H,3H)-dione (also commonly referred to as TetraMethylolAcetyleneDiurea TMAD), orthophenylphenol (OPP), 2-methyl-4-isothiazoline-3-one (MIT), 5-chloro-2-methyl-2H-isothiazolin-3-one (CIT), 1 ,2-benzisothiazoline-3-one (BIT), or mixtures thereof.

For example, the thickening agent may be selected from polyurethanes, acrylic polymers, latex, styrene, butadiene, polyvinylalcohol, cellulose, cellulose-derived macromolecules, saccharides and organosilicones.

For example, the binder may be selected from any of the binders disclosed herein, including, for example, polyvinyl acetate, ethylene acetate or copolymers thereof.

Coating Pore Volume

Coating pore volume is a measure of the total amount of space between the particles in a material (i.e. volume not occupied by solid matter) and the volume within particles if the particle is porous. Unless otherwise stated, the coating pore volume of the inorganic particulate material in the composition is measured by first preparing a test composition comprising 100 pph of the inorganic particulate material and 5 pph binder (e.g., a paper coating latex such as SBR latex) and coating the sample onto a polymer substrate (e.g. , using a standard coater to draw down the test composition onto the plastic). An approximately 0.5 g sample of the test composition is placed in an assembled glass dilatometer (measuring vessel) in a Thermoelectron (ThermoFisher) Mercury Porosimeter model Pascal 140, 240. This is subsequently taken down to near vacuum (0.02 kPa), filled with Mercury and re-pressurized slowly back to atmospheric pressure and greater until a final pressure of 190 M Pa is achieved. Using software based on the Lucas-washburn equation, the intrusion of Mercury into the sample vs pressure can be translated into a pore size vs pore volume distribution. Software is also used to derive the pore volume (area under the graph) and the peak pore size across the pore size region specified above.

The inorganic particulate material in the composition may, for example, have a coating pore volume equal to or less than about 0.4 cm3g"1. For example, the inorganic particulate material in the composition may have a coating pore volume equal to or less than about 0.35 cm3g"1 , for example equal to or less than about 0.3 cm3g"\ for example equal to or less than about 0.25 cm3g"1 , for example equal to or less than about 0.2 cm3g"1 , for example equal to or less than about 0.15 cm3g"1. The inorganic particulate material in the composition may, for example, have a coating pore volume equal to or less than about 0.14 cm3g"1, for example equal to or less than about 0.13 cm3g"1, for example equal to or less than about 0.12 cm3g"1. The inorganic particulate material in the composition may, for example, have a coating pore volume equal to or more than about 0.01 cm3g"1. For example, the inorganic particulate material in the composition may have a coating pore volume equal to or more than about 0.05 cm3g"1 , for example equal to or more than about 0.1 cm3g"1. For example, the inorganic particulate material in the composition may have a coating pore volume ranging from about 0.01 cm3g"1 to about 0.4 cm3g"1 , for example from about 0.01 cm3g"1 to about 0.15 cm3g"1 , for example from about 0.1 cm3g"1 to about 0.14 cm3g-1.

Pore Size

Unless otherwise stated, the mean pore size of the inorganic particulate material in the composition is measured using a Thermoelectron (ThermoFisher) Mercury Porosimeter model Pascal 140, 240 as described above for measurement of coating pore volume. The inorganic particulate material in the composition may, for example, have a mean pore size equal to or less than about 1.1 μηι. For example, the inorganic particulate material in the composition may have a mean pore size equal to or less than about 1.0 μηι, for example equal to or less than about 0.9 μηι, for example equal to or less than about 0.8 μηι. The inorganic particulate material in the composition may, for example, have a mean pore size equal to or greater than about 0.01 μηι, for example equal to or greater than about 0.05 μηι, for example equal to or greater than about 0.1 μηι. For example, the inorganic particulate material in the composition may have a mean pore size ranging from about 0.01 μηι to about 1.1 μηι, for example from about 0.05 μηι to about 1.0 μηι, for example from about 0.1 μηι to about 0.9 μηι.

Particle Size Distribution

Unless otherwise stated, the steepness factor is defined as the ratio of the d3o equivalent spherical diameter (at which 30% by weight of the particles are finer) to the d70 equivalent spherical diameter (at which 70% by weight of the particles are finer), multiplied by 100.

The parameter equivalent spherical diameter (esd) is measured in a well known manner by sedimentation of the particulate material in a fully dispersed condition in an aqueous medium using a Sedigraph 5100 machine as supplied by Micromeritics Instruments Corporation, Norcross, Georgia, USA (telephone: +17706623620; web-site: www.micromeritics.com), referred to herein as a "Micromeritics Sedigraph 5100 unit". Such a machine provides measurements and a plot of the cumulative percentage by weight of particles having a size, referred to in the art as the 'equivalent spherical diameter' (e.s.d), less than given e.s.d values.

The steepness factor of the inorganic particulate material in the composition may be less than or equal to about 60. The steepness factor of the inorganic particulate material in the composition may, for example, be less than or equal to about 55, for example less than or equal to about 50, for example less than or equal to about 45, for example less than or equal to about 40, for example less than or equal to about 35, for example less than or equal to about 30. For example, the steepness factor of the inorganic particulate material in the composition may be less than or equal to about 28, for example less than or equal to about 27, for example less than or equal to about 26. The steepness factor of the inorganic particulate material in the composition may, for example, be less than or equal to about 25. For example, the steepness factor of the inorganic particulate material in the composition may be less than or equal to about 24, for example less than or equal to about 23, for example less than or equal to about 22, for example less than or equal to about 21.

The steepness factor of the inorganic particulate material in the composition may range from about 10 to about 60. For example, the steepness factor of the inorganic particulate material in the composition may range from about 10 to about 50, for example from about 10 to about 30, for example from about 10 to about 28, for example from about 10 to about 25, for example from about 10 to about 23. The steepness factor of the inorganic particulate material in the composition may, for example, range from about 20 to about 30, or from about 25 to about 35, for example from about 20 to about 25 or from about 25 to about 30.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a dso ranging from about 0.1 μηι to about 3.0 μηι. In certain embodiments, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a dso ranging from about 0.1 μηι to about 2.5 μηι, for example from about 0.1 μηι to about 2.0 μηι. In certain embodiments, the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a dso ranging from about 0.2 μηι to about 1.5 μηι, for example from about 0.2 μηι to about 1.0 μηι, for example from about 0.2 μηι to about 0.8 μηι, for example from about 0.2 μηι to about 0.6 μηι.

Stain Length

Unless otherwise stated, stain length is measured by Dutch standard NEN 1836. Coating stain length and stain length refer to the length of an ink stain after spreading on a paper coating composition. A shorter stain length indicates that the coating is more absorbent or rough.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the composition is adapted to provide a coating having a stain length ranging from about 9 cm to about 12 cm. In certain embodiments, the composition provides a stain length ranging from about 9 cm to about 11 cm, for example from about 9 cm to about 10 cm.

CPVC Point

The critical pigment volume concentration (CPVC) point is the point where there is enough binder to completely surround the pigment and fill all the voids between the particles. A lower CPVC point indicates that less binder is required to fully bind the coating. Unless otherwise stated, the CPVC point of the composition is measured by drawing down a thin film (approximately 15 gsm wet) of a test composition comprising inorganic particulate material and a binder onto a black impermeable substrate. A spacer ring is placed on the surface to prevent wet coating colour from being transferred to the instrument and the coating is placed under a reflectometer. The reflectance is measured as a function of time until the film has dried. As the film dries, the particles in the coating become closer and reflect the light less efficiently and the reflectance decreases. If the test composition is fully bound (pigment is completely surrounded and all voids filled), then reflectance will reach a plateau when the film has dried. If the test composition is not fully bound then incorporation of air during drying will cause the reflectance to increase again. This test is repeated for test compositions comprising different amounts (by weight) of binder (relative to 100 pph inorganic particulate material by weight) until a test composition that is fully bound is found. Thus, the CPVC point may alternatively be referred to as the CPWC (critical pigment weight concentration) point.

The inorganic particulate material in the composition may have a CPVC point of less than or equal to about 29 pph binder (where the binder is added by weight (29 pph binder

by weight with 100 pph pigment by weight). For example, the inorganic particulate material in the composition may have a CPVC point of less than or equal to about 28 pph binder, for example less than or equal to about 27 pph binder, for example less than or equal to about 26 pph binder. The inorganic particulate material in the composition may, for example, have a CPVC point of less than or equal to about 25 pph binder, less than or equal to about 24 pph binder, less than or equal to about 23 pph binder or less than or equal to about 22 pph binder, for example less than or equal to about 21 pph binder.

The inorganic particulate material in the composition may have a CPVC point ranging from about 5 pph to about 29 pph binder, for example from about 5 pph to about 28 pph binder. The inorganic particulate material in the composition may, for example, have a CPVC point ranging from about 5 pph binder to about 25 pph binder. The inorganic particulate material in the composition may have a CPVC point ranging from about 10 pph to about 25 pph binder, for example from about 10 pph to about 23 pph binder, for example from about 20 pph to about 25 pph binder.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the binder used to measure the CPVC point is a latex such as SBR latex. Alternatively, the binder used to measure CPVC point may be any one of the binders listed below in the section relating to barrier coating compositions and paper coating compositions.

OVTR

Unless otherwise stated, the OVTR of the composition is measured by coating a base paper, with a coating composition comprising 60 pph of the mineral composition with the remainder being a polyvinyl alcohol latex, at a coatweight of 7 to 10 gsm. The base paper may be pre-coated with up to 12 gsm of a pre-coating composition. The pre-coating composition may comprise calcium carbonate having at least 60% of particles smaller than 2 μηι and less than 15 pph of latex. The coated paper product is first cut in to circles of diameter 62.5 mm. The coated paper samples are left in a fume cupboard overnight prior to testing. Approximately 8 ml of n-heptane or decane is placed in the bottom of a sealable beaker. The beaker is then covered by the coated paper samples with the coated side facing inwards and the edges are sealed. The beaker is then weighed

accurately to 4 decimal places and this is taken as time zero. The sealed beakers are left to stand in the fume cupboard and reweighed every 1 or 2 hours. As the volatile material escapes through the board, this results in a weight loss (gsm per day). The test is carried out at 21 °C and 50% relative humidity. A lower OVTR indicates a lower oil vapour transmission rate and that better barrier properties are obtained.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the composition has an OVTR of less than about 70 gsm/day. In certain embodiments, the composition has an OVTR of less than about 65 gsm/day, for example less than about 60 gsm/day, for example less than about 55 gsm/day, for example less than about 50 gsm/day.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the composition has an OVTR ranging from about 10 gsm/day to about 70 gsm/day when measured using n-heptane. In certain embodiments, the composition has an OVTR ranging from about 10 gsm/day to about 65 gsm/day, for example from about 10 gsm/day to about 60 gsm/day, for example from about 10 gsm/day to about 55 gsm/day, for example from about 10 gsm/day to about 50 gsm/day when measured using n-heptane. In certain embodiments, the composition has an OVTR ranging from about 15 gsm/day to about 70 gsm/day, for example from about 15 gsm/day to about 65 gsm/day, for example from about 15 gsm/day to about 60 gsm/day, for example from about 15 gsm/day to about 55 gsm/day, for example from about 15 gsm/day to about 50 gsm/day when measured using n-heptane. In certain embodiments, the composition has an OVTR ranging from about 20 gsm/day to about 70 gsm/day, for example from about 20 gsm/day to about 65 gsm/day, for example from about 20 gsm/day to about 60 gsm/day, for example from about 20 gsm/day to about 55 gsm/day, for example from about 20 gsm/day to about 50 gsm/day when measured using n-heptane.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the composition has an OVTR ranging from about 0.5 gsm/day to about 70 gsm/day when measured using decane. For example, the composition may have an OVTR ranging from about 0.5 gsm/day to about 50 gsm/day or from about 0.5 gsm/day to about 40 gsm/day or from about 1 gsm/day to about 30 gsm/day or from about 1 gsm/day to about 20 gsm/day or from about 1 gsm/day to about 10 gsm/day or from about 1 gsm/day to about 8 gsm/day or from about 1 gsm/day to about 6 gsm/day or from about 1 gsm/day to about 5 gsm/day or from about 1 gsm/day to about 4 gsm/day or from about 1 gsm/day to about 3 gsm/day when measured using decane.

MVTR

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the composition has an MVTR of less than about 50 gsm/day. In certain embodiments, the composition has an MVTR of less than about 45 gsm/day, for example less than about 40 gsm/day, for example less than about 35 gsm/day, for example less than about 30 gsm/day.

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the composition has an MVTR ranging from about 1 gsm/day to about 50 gsm/day. In certain embodiments, the composition has an MVTR ranging from about 5 gsm/day to about 45 gsm/day, for example from about 10 gsm/day to about 40 gsm/day, for example from about 15 gsm/day to about 35 gsm/day, for example from about 20 gsm/day to about 30 gsm/day.

Unless otherwise stated, MVTR of the composition is measured in a corresponding manner to OVTR. The beaker contains silica gel instead of n-heptane or decane and the uncoated side faces inwards. The weight of the beaker is measured to 4 decimal places and taken at time zero. The test is carried out at 21 °C and 50% relative humidity over a number of days, with periodic measurements. A lower mass increase corresponds to a lower moisture transmission rate and so a better barrier to moisture.

Gurley Air Permeability

In certain embodiments, the composition has a Gurley air permeability equal to or greater than about 100,000 s. For example, the composition may have a Gurley air permeability up to about 200,000 s.

Unless otherwise stated, Gurley air permeability was measured using the method described in ISO 5636-5, TAPPI 460 om-11. The units of seconds correspond to the time for 100 ml of air to pass through, where a high number indicates low permeability. The base paper, coating composition and coatweight etc. used may be as described above for OVTR.

Kit Test

In certain embodiments, the composition has a Kit test value equal to or greater than about 10. For example, the composition may have a Kit test value equal to or greater than about 1 1 or equal to or greater than about 12 or equal to or greater than about 13 or equal to or greater than about 14 or equal to or greater than about 15. For example, the composition may have a Kit test value up to about 16.

Unless otherwise stated, Kit test value is measured using the test method outlined in TAPPI 559 pm-96 but extended to 16 reagent blends. The Kit test solutions are all blends of castor oil, toluene and n-heptane in varying levels. The Kit test solution numbered 1 contains the most castor oil and number 16 contains the most heptane. An intermediate numbered Kit test solution e.g. 8 is pipetted in drops on the surface of the coated paper then wiped away after 15 seconds. The test area is then examined for signs of penetration into the surface. Any penetration is termed as a failure and the test is repeated with the next lowest numbered solution until there is no penetration i.e. a pass. Conversely, if the initial test yields no penetration, then the next highest Kit test solution is tested until there is failure. The highest number of Kit test solution that does not cause failure is quoted as the Kit test value. The base paper, coating composition and coatweight etc. used may be as described above for OVTR.

EmtecTest

In certain embodiments, the composition has an Emtec test value equal to or greater than about 50 s. For example, the composition may have an Emtec test value equal to or greater than about 55 s or equal to or greater than about 60 s or equal to or greater than about 65 s or equal to or greater than about 70 s. For example, the composition mayhave an Emtec test value up to about 100 s or up to about 90 s or up to about 75 s or up to about 80 s.

Unless otherwise stated, Emtec test value is measured using an Emtec Penetration Dynamics Analyzer PDA.C 02. This measures the attenuation of ultrasound through a substrate over time as it is immersed in a liquid (e.g. water) from an initial 100% intensity. An intensity of 0% is set as the baseline running the test using just the tape that holds the sample in place. The attenuation is proportional to the absorption of the liquid into the substrate. The machine can be set at either 1 MHz (for board) or 2MHz (for paper) and was run on the 'General' measure mode. The intensity can then be quoted after a certain time, or the time to reach a set intensity. The base paper, coating composition and coatweight etc. used may be as described above for OVTR.

Inorganic Particulate Material Components

In certain embodiments of any aspect of the present invention, the composition comprises a first inorganic particulate material component having a first particle size distribution and a second inorganic particulate material component having a second particle size distribution. In certain embodiments, the composition further comprises a third inorganic particulate material component having a third particle size distribution. In certain embodiments, the composition further comprises a fourth inorganic particulate material component having a fourth particle size distribution. In certain embodiments, the composition further comprises a fifth inorganic particulate material component having a fifth particle size distribution. In certain embodiments, the composition further comprises a sixth inorganic particulate material component having a sixth particle size distribution.

Each inorganic particulate material component may, for example, be any of the inorganic particulate materials described above. The first inorganic particulate material component may, for example, be calcium carbonate. The second inorganic particulate material component may, for example, be calcium carbonate. The third inorganic particulate material component may, for example, be calcium carbonate. The fourth inorganic particulate material component may, for example, be calcium carbonate. The fifth inorganic particulate material component may, for example, be calcium carbonate. The sixth inorganic particulate material component may, for example, be calcium carbonate. The first and second inorganic particulate material components may, for example, both be calcium carbonate. The first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth inorganic particulate material components (where present) may, for example, all be calcium carbonate.

The calcium carbonate may, for example, be ground calcium carbonate (GCC) or precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC). The calcium carbonate may, for example, be

obtained from naturally occurring mineral sources, for example limestone, chalk, marble and travertine, for example by grinding. The PCC may also be ground. A combination of two or more calcium carbonates may be used. For example, a combination of ground calcium carbonate and precipitated calcium carbonate may be used. The combination of two or more calcium carbonates may be prepared by co-grinding.

The steepness factor of the total inorganic particulate material in the composition may, for example, be equal to or lower than the steepness factor of the inorganic particulate material component having the lowest steepness factor. The steepness factor of the inorganic particulate material in the composition may be as described above.

The steepness factor of the first inorganic particulate material component may be equal to or more than about 15. For example, the steepness factor of the first inorganic particulate material component may be equal to or more than about 20, for example equal to or more than about 25, for example equal to or more than about 27, for example equal to or more than about 30, for example equal to or more than about 32, for example equal to or more than about 35.

The steepness factor of the first inorganic particulate material component may be equal to or less than about 80. For example, the steepness factor of the first inorganic particulate material component may be equal to or less than about 70, for example equal to or less than about 60, for example equal to or less than about 50, for example equal to or less than about 45, for example equal to or less than about 40, for example equal to or less than about 35.

The steepness factor of the second inorganic particulate material component may be equal to or more than about 15. For example, the steepness factor of the second inorganic particulate material component may be equal to or more than about 20, for example equal to or more than about 25, for example equal to or more than about 27, for example equal to or more than about 30, for example equal to or more than about 32, for example equal to or more than about 35.

The steepness factor of the second inorganic particulate material component may be equal to or less than about 80. For example, the steepness factor of the second inorganic particulate material component may be equal to or less than about 70, for example equal to or less than about 60, for example equal to or less than about 50, for example equal to or less than about 45, for example equal to or less than about 40, for example equal to or less than about 35.

The steepness factor of the third inorganic particulate material component may be equal to or more than about 15. For example, the steepness factor of the third inorganic particulate material component may be equal to or more than about 20, for example equal to or more than about 25, for example equal to or more than about 27, for example equal to or more than about 30, for example equal to or more than about 32, for example equal to or more than about 35.

The steepness factor of the third inorganic particulate material component may be equal to or less than about 80. For example, the steepness factor of the third inorganic particulate material component may be equal to or less than about 70, for example equal to or less than about 60, for example equal to or less than about 50, for example equal to or less than about 45, for example equal to or less than about 40, for example equal to or less than about 35.

The steepness factor of the fourth, fifth and sixth inorganic particulate material components (where present) may, for example, be equal to or less than about 80. For example, the steepness factor of the fourth, fifth and sixth inorganic particulate material components (where present) may be equal to or less than about 70, for example equal to or less than about 60, for example equal to or less than about 50, for example equal to or less than about 45, for example equal to or less than about 40, for example equal to or less than about 35.

The steepness factor of the fourth, fifth and sixth inorganic particulate material components (where present) may be equal to or more than about 15. For example, the steepness factor of the fourth, fifth and sixth inorganic particulate material components (where present) may be equal to or more than about 20, for example equal to or more than about 25, for example equal to or more than about 27, for example equal to or more than about 30, for example equal to or more than about 32, for example equal to or more than about 35.

The dso of the first inorganic particulate material component may range from about 0.1 μηι to about 3.0 μηι. For example, the dso of the first inorganic particulate material component may range from about 0.1 μηι to about 2.5 μηι. for example from about 0.1 μηι to about 2.0 μηι. For example, the dso of the first inorganic particulate material component may range from about 0.3 μηι to about 1.5 μηι. The dso of the first inorganic particulate material component may, for example, range from about 0.3 μηι to about 1.2 μηι, for example from about 0.3 μηι to about 1.0 μηι, for example from about 0.3 μηι to about 0.8 μηι. The dso of the first inorganic particulate material component may range from about 0.5 μηι to about 1.5 μηι, for example from about 0.8 μηι to about 1.5 μηι, for example from about 1.0 μηι to about 1.5 μηι.

The dso of the second inorganic particulate material component may range from about 0.1 μηι to about 3.0 μηι. For example, the dso of the second inorganic particulate material component may range from about 0.1 μηι to about 2.5 μηι. for example from about 0.1 μηι to about 2.0 μηι. For example, the dso of the second inorganic particulate material component may range from about 0.1 μηι to about 0.8 μηι, for example from about 0.1 μηι to about 0.5 μηι. The d5o of the second inorganic particulate material component may, for example, range from about 0.2 μηι to about 0.5 μηι, for example from about 0.2 μηι to about 0.4 μηι. The dso of the second inorganic particulate material component may range from about 0.3 μηι to about 0.5 μηι.

The dso of the third inorganic particulate material component may, for example, range from about 0.1 μηι to about 3.0 μηι, for example from about 0.1 μηι to about 2.5 μηι. For example, the dso of the third inorganic particulate material component may range from about 0.1 μηι to about 2.0 μηι, for example from about 0.1 μηι to about 1.5 μηι. For example dso of the third inorganic particulate material component may range from about 0.1 μηι to about 1.0 μηι, for example from about 0.1 μηι to about 0.8 μηι, for example from about 0.1 μηι to about 0.5 μηι, for example from about 0.3 μηι to about 0.5 μηι. For example, the dso of the third inorganic particulate material component may range from about 0.3 μηι to about 1.5 μηι, for example from about 0.5 μηι to about 1.5 μηι, for example from about 0.5 μηι to about 1.0 μηι.

The dso of the fourth, fifth and sixth inorganic particulate material components (where present) may, for example, range from about 0.1 μηι to about 3.0 μηι, for example from about 0.1 μηι to about 2.5 μηι, for example from about 0.1 μηι to about 2.0 μηι, for example from about 0.1 μηι to about 1.5 μηι. The dso of the fourth, fifth and sixth inorganic particulate material components (where present) may range from about 0.1 μηι to about 1.0 μηι, for example from about 0.1 μηι to about 0.8 μηι, for example from about 0.1 μηι to about 0.5 μηι, for example from about 0.3 μηι to about 0.5 μηι. For example, the dso of the fourth, fifth and sixth inorganic particulate material components (where present) may range from about 0.3 μηι to about 1.5 μηι, for example from about 0.5 μηι to about 1.5 μηι, for example from about 0.5 μηι to about 1.0 μηι.

The dso of the first inorganic particulate material component may be different to the dso of the second inorganic particulate material component. The dso of the third, fourth, fifth and/or sixth inorganic particulate material components, where present, may each individually be different from the dso of the other (first, second, third, fourth, fifth and/or sixth) inorganic particulate material components.

The first and/or second and/or third and/or fourth and/or fifth and/or sixth inorganic particulate material components (where present) may each individually have an shape factor equal to or less than about 20. For example, the first and/or second and/or third and/or fourth and/or fifth and/or sixth inorganic particulate material components (where present) may each individually have an shape factor equal to or less than about 17, for example equal to or less than about 15, for example equal to or less than about 12, for example equal to or less than about 10, for example equal to or less than about 7, for example equal to or less than about 5, for example equal to or less than about 2.

The first inorganic particulate material component may be present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 50 wt% to about 90 wt%. For example, the first inorganic particulate material component may be present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 55 wt% to about 85 wt%, for example from about 50 wt% to about 80 wt%, for example from about 50 wt% to about 75 wt%, for example from about 50 wt% to about 70 wt%, for example from about 50 wt% to about 65 wt%. The first inorganic particulate material component may, for example, be present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 60 wt% to about 90 wt%, for example from about 60 wt% to about 85 wt%, for example from about 60 wt% to about 80 wt%.

The second inorganic particulate material component may, for example, be present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 10 wt% to about 50 wt%. The second inorganic particulate material component may be present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 15 wt% to about 45 wt%, for example from about 20 wt% to about 50 wt%, for example from about 25 wt% to about 50 wt%, for example from about 30 wt% to about 50 wt%, for example from about 35 wt% to about 50 wt%. For example, the second inorganic particulate material component may be present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 10 wt% to about 40 wt%, for example from about 15 wt% to about 40 wt%, for example from about 20 wt% to about 40 wt%.

The third inorganic particulate material component may, for example, be present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 5 wt% to about 30 wt%. For example, the third inorganic particulate material component may be present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 10 wt% to about 30 wt%, for example from about 15 wt% to about 30 wt%, for example from about 20 wt% to about 30 wt%. For example, the third inorganic particulate material component may be present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 5 wt% to about 25 wt%, for example from about 5 wt% to about 20 wt%, for example from about 5 wt% to about 15 wt%.

The fourth, fifth and sixth inorganic particulate material components (where present) may, for example, each independently be present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 5 wt% to about 30 wt%. For example, the fourth, fifth and sixth inorganic particulate material components (where present) may each be present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 10 wt% to about 30 wt%, for example from about 15 wt% to about 30 wt%, for example from about 20 wt% to about 30 wt%. For example, the fourth, fifth and sixth inorganic particulate material components (where present) may each independently be present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 5 wt% to about 25 wt%, for example from about 5 wt% to about 20 wt%, for example from about 5 wt% to about 15 wt%.

In certain embodiments where, for example, the composition consists of first and second inorganic particulate material components, the minor component (component present in the smallest amount), may, for example, be present in an amount of at least about 10 wt%. For example, where the composition consists of a first and second inorganic

particulate material components, the minor component may be present in an amount of at least about 15 wt%. For example, where the composition consists of a first and second inorganic particulate material components, the minor component may be present in an amount of at least about 20 wt%.

In certain embodiments where, for example, the composition consists of first, second and third inorganic particulate material components, the minor component (component present in the smallest amount) may, for example, be present in an amount of at least about 5 wt%. For example, where the composition consists of first, second and third inorganic particulate material components, the minor component may be present in an amount of at least about 10 wt%. For example, where the composition consists of first, second and third inorganic particulate material components, the minor component may be present in an amount of at least about 15 wt%. For example, where the composition consists of first, second and third inorganic particulate material components, the minor component may be present in an amount of at least about 20 wt%.

CLAIMS

A composition comprising at least one inorganic particulate material, wherein the inorganic particulate material in the composition has a CPVC point less than about 29 pph binder.

The composition of claim 1 , wherein the inorganic particulate material in the composition has:

(a) a mean pore size equal to or less than about 1.1 μηι, for example equal to or less than about 1.0 μηι, or for example ranging from about 0.01 μηι to about 1.1 μηι; and/or

(b) a steepness factor less than or equal to about 60, for example less than or equal to about 50, for example less than or equal to about 30, for example less than or equal to about 25; and/or

(c) a coating pore volume equal to or less than about 0.4 cm3g_1 , for example equal to or less than about 0.15 cm3g"1, for example equal to or less than about 0.14 cm3g"1 ; and/or

(d) a shape factor equal to or less than about 20, for example equal to or less than about 10, for example equal to or less than about 5; and/or

(e) a dso ranging from about 0.1 μηι to about 3.0 μηι, for example from about

0.1 μηι to about 2.0 μηι, for example from about 0.2 μηι to about 1.5 μηι, for example from about 0.2 μηι to about 1.0 μηι, for example from about 0.2 μηι to about 0.8 μηι.

The composition of claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one inorganic particulate material is calcium carbonate.

The composition of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the composition comprises a first inorganic particulate material component having a first particle size distribution and a second inorganic particulate material component having a

second particle size distribution and optionally a third inorganic particulate material component having a third particle size distribution.

5. The composition of claim 4, wherein the steepness factor of the total inorganic particulate material in the composition is equal to or lower than the steepness factor of the inorganic particulate material component having the lowest steepness factor.

6. The composition of claim 4 or 5, wherein the first and/or second and/or third inorganic particulate material component(s) is/are calcium carbonate.

7. The composition of any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the steepness factor of the first and/or second inorganic particulate material component(s) is:

(a) equal to or more than about 15, for example equal to or more than about 25, for example equal to or more than about 30; and/or

(b) equal to or less than about 80, for example equal to or less than about 60, for example equal to or less than about 40.

8. The composition of any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the dso of the first and/or second and/or third inorganic particulate material component ranges from about 0.1 μηι to about 3.0 μηι.

9. The composition of any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the first and/or second and/or third inorganic particulate material component(s) has/have a shape factor equal to or less than about 20, for example equal to or less than about 10, for example equal to or less than about 5.

10. The composition of any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein the steepness factor of the third inorganic particulate material component is equal to or more than about 15, for example equal to or more than about 25, for example equal to or more than about 30, and/or wherein the steepness factor of the third inorganic particulate material component is equal to or less than about 80, for example equal to or less than about 60, for example equal to or less than about 40.

1 1. The composition of any one of claims 4 to 10, wherein the first inorganic particulate material component is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 50 wt% to about 90 wt% and/or wherein the second inorganic particulate material component is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 10 wt% to about 50 wt% and/or wherein the optional third inorganic particulate material component is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 5 wt% to about 30 wt%.

12. A method for making a composition of any one of claims 1 to 1 1 , the method comprising:

combining a first inorganic particulate material component having a first particle size distribution with a second inorganic particulate material component having a second particle size distribution, and optionally combining a third inorganic particulate material component having a third particle size distribution with the first and/or second calcium carbonate components.

13. Use of a composition of any one of claims 1 to 1 1 in a barrier coating composition and/or in a paper coating composition.

14. A barrier coating composition or a paper coating composition comprising a binder and composition of any one of claims 1 to 1 1.

15. A product coated with a composition of any one of claims 1 to 11 or a barrier coating composition or paper coating composition of claim 14.