Small scale microencapsulated pigments and uses thereof

A method of making a dewatered slurry ready for industrial use, said method comprising:

• producing a slurry including encapsulated thermochromic systems by combining:
• an internal phase including a leuco dye and a developer for said leuco dye;
• a resin;
• and
• an aqueous phase including an anionic surfactant in an amount which constitutes greater than 2% of said slurry by weight;
• wherein said amount of said anionic surfactant is effective to produce said encapsulated thermochromic systems which have a mean by volume particle size diameter of less than 1 micron;
• and
• combining an amount of a chemical additive with said slurry;
• wherein said amount of said chemical additive is effective to facilitate dewatering of said slurry with said anionic surfactant in place to provide said dewatered slurry comprising less than 60% water by weight.