Why is pigment critical for the ink and packaging industry?

admin Feb 17, 2023

As there is a high demand for, manufacturers dealing in high quality of inorganic and organic pigments are important. They provide customized solutions with high performing applications. The interaction of pigmentation with ink is related to the viscosity, texture, gloss, and flow. Manufactures have to pay attention to reproduction of color tones due to variable paper quality as the same is also required for the packaging industry.

Flexibility is the key to preparation of pigments for offset applications. The inkjet industry relies on solvent and water based inks with right choice of pigmentation. With global concerns over ethical processes, the shift is towards making a combination that complies with industry norms and also satisfies the customer.

Formulation accuracies

The dispersion of formulation pigments is downsized between 50 and 200nm (as per application). They need to be stable for particles to bond and absorb certain compounds. Reducing the particle size is a challenge due to high density. Manufacturers have to check the viscosity and surface tension which restrict ink properties. That is why pigment particles that bond edges are important. When preparing various solutions, it is important to understand the applications required by the customer.

The inkjet sector requires:

Accurate dispersion for printing inks.
Water-based inks for tints
Solvent-based inks for transparency.
Importance in packaging & labeling

Without the use of right pigment and inks, the packaging industry cannot have good brand quality or visibility. The main objective of the final formulation is to meet the end user’s requirement. The correct selection reflects on the bleed, heat and migratory factors. For example, liquid inks require a dry toner/press cake form. The dispersion quality determines its usefulness with versatile solutions for offset, gravure for publications, decorative and laminate inks.

Water-based inks for tints and transparency

Water-based inks are currently trending globally because of lesser impact on environment. The printing industry is adopting new methods for ethical packaging solutions. Manufacturers face challenges in creating pigments as water generates problems. With the use of anti-foaming agents, micro-bubbles are reduced to stop thickening of the ink. The customer’s demands can still be met with tinting, high gloss and transparency.

Solvent-based inks for uncoated surfaces

Different inks have various carriers and substrates. Hence, the main considerations for creating applications with solvent-based inks depend on:

Surface tension configuration
Print speed requirement
Chemical compatibility
End use of the application
Compliances with industry regulations
A manufacturer will factor the above when testing and creating samples for customers. It will create pigment particle bonding with the ink. If the ink does not match the quality, it will ruin the design and purpose of the process. Uncoated surfaces also require effective solutions. Printing is done on paper, metallic surfaces, films, cellophane and plastic. Hence, to make the right choice, discussing the requirement is important. Manufacturers who use the best materials and are experienced in offering suggestions related to essential pigment coating are capable of delivering the best results.

Anti-Corrosion Pigments and Their Applications

admin Feb 17, 2023

The use of pigments can be dated back through the civilizations, which means that the use of pigments has found importance in a lot of different ways. In the more modern times, pigments are classified into organic and inorganic pigments. While there is a set of applications for organic pigments, on an industrial and commercial level, the use of inorganic pigments is much wider for different reasons. Among the different applications of products from inorganic pigment manufacturers, one of the most important applications is in the creation of protective coatings which help in making anti-corrosive surfaces. A lot of different products like pipes, structural support solutions, automotive paints and other such surfaces that are prone to corrosion and need to be protected, make use of protective coatings that use inorganic pigments as one of the ingredients.

In the making of anti-corrosive pigments the use of zinc chromate, zinc tetroxy chromate and zinc phosphate is most essential. In order to be able to find the right anti-corrosion pigment for the creation of protective coatings, your best bet is to look for the best chrome pigments manufacturers.

How the Anti-corrosion pigments for protective coatings work:

Corrosion takes place because of continual chemical or electro-chemical reactions of metals with their environment. Metal products that are used in machines, processing, building etc. are highly prone to corrosion as they come in constant contact with materials that cause the phenomenon. The use of inorganic pigments for coating like molybdate orange or chrome yellow and ultramarine blue can prove to be useful in the creation of effective protective coatings to be used in anti-corrosive applications.

One of the most important ways in which the anti-corrosive pigments work is by physically keeping water and oxygen out and away from the reach of the surface. The pigments also provide pacifying ions that protect the surface over which they are applied, thereby keeping the surface safe from corrosion. Finally, alternatives in inorganic anti-corrosive pigments like Chrome Yellow help by creating an insoluble protective film over the surface to keep the surface protected from anodic reactions.

Properties of certain anti-corrosive pigments:

It is known that certain pigments such as zinc phosphate provide greater durability and protective coat adhesion, which is why they are highly preferred in the creation of protective coating products such as paints. The type of pigment also works towards the creation of inorganic oxyacids which are effective inhibiting corrosive actions against the surfaces on which they are applied. Some anti-corrosive pigments are also great at pacifying anodic action, which means that they can effectively block out electro-chemical reactions.

It is safe to say that the use of inorganic pigments like the anti-corrosive variety is high in demand across a lot of industries ranging from chemical to manufacturing and even in the building and construction industry. However, when you need to ensure that you are able to get truly effective pigments for the creation of protective coatings, you need to place your trust in inorganic pigment manufacturers that are reliable and will offer you professional and precise solutions.

Pigment performance in the plastic industry

admin Feb 17, 2023

Worldwide, the plastic industry relies heavily on pigments and its assorted range of functions. Pigment formulations evolve with experiments and testing brings out unique characteristics, thus making its performance critical. Manufacturers depend a lot on its outcome to cater to this sector. Pigment uses are no longer restricted to colors or getting the right shade. Now there is an additional burden of sustainability and various compliances. Furthermore, they have to be adaptable for different industrial processes.
The availability of masterbatch (coloring agent) is an essential component for polymer materials. Recent reports reveal that Asia offers the highest growth of pigments for several applications in the plastic industry, especially for packaging products. Manufacturers who follow stringent industrial norms for formulation and processing are preferred. They also conform to packaging materials and safety for plastic toys. Ability to innovative and improve solutions for customers add strength to their quality assurance.

7 types of masterbatches for plastic industry

Pigment performance for plastics
Over a period of time, we understand that plastic is difficult to degrade when it is thrown out. Due to this reason the current generation of manufacturers creates pigments which enhance the degradation and support the environment. The focus of the performing pigment relies on several properties. They are preferred in comparison to dyes due to water and oil solubility. The superfastness qualities additionally make them very useful in the plastic industry.

Following are the pigment properties critical to the plastic industry for masterbatches production.

1. Behavior under artificial lighting and sunlight is important. When plastic is exposed to strong light how will it perform? This determines the product’s usefulness to the customer. If the pigment is resistant to weather and extreme light it is protective and acceptable. The manufacturer makes a stable formulation which is critical for the final product.
2. If the product is being used indoors, artificial light also puts a strain on the properties of its performance. Lightness is yet another measure to control for various functions inside the premises.
3. Crystallization matters for wrapping and nucleation. When organic pigments are used they affect the cooling process which is done for injection molding.
4. The transparency of a pigment is created by reducing the particles. The surrounding layers achieve this process to ensure there is no crystal growth. This is effective in the printing industry for dispersion on various materials.

Complete range of pigment formulations

Asian manufacturers are in demand as they have a complete suite of formulations for the Masterbatches creation. It includes organic pigments, Phthalocyanine pigments, dues and optical brightness which are specifically required by the plastic industry. Adherence to manufacturing processes include compliance towards regulatory standards designed by the plastic industry for product safety. Pigment makers with a global presence can be approached for customized solutions for colorant pigments required for PVC, HDPE/LDPE/PP, Fibre.

The applications of masterbatches are distinctive and those with resistance to chemicals & solvents and increased light fastness will always be in demand for various functions.

Main features and uses of solvent metal complex dyes

admin Feb 17, 2023

Solvent metal complex dyes are very popular due to versatile functions and uses. Manufacturers whose main business is to produce them can create customized formulations for various industries. Miscibility and solubility are the main characteristics that define the functionality of solvent metal complex dyes. They are ideal for wood coating/staining, stationary and printing inks, aluminum foil coloring, baking finishes, hot stamping foil coloring, shoe polishing and leather finishes.

We present an overview of this important category that manufacturers produce for various industries. Using key intermediaries in-house for APIs in well-equipped labs makes the supplier a one-stop solution for several customers.

Description
Solvent metal complex dyes have a good compatibility with resins (natural and synthetic) and organic solvents. They are particularly suitable because they exhibit ideal properties for light fastness, color strength and possess a good resistance to heat.

Advantages of in-house solutions

• Quality control is maintained at each stage. With the right procurement of raw materials, monitoring during testing procedure is convenient. It makes delivery of end results more accurate for the customers.
• There is a wide variety of vibrant and precise color schemes which are valued in printing and coating sectors. As stability to high heat is critical, in-house processes bring out the right shades required for resistance.
• Solubility is the key to solvents metal complex dyes. They include Butyl Cellosolve, Ethanol, MEK, Ethoxy and Methoxy Propanol. These are perfect for developing aromatic solvents.
• According to EN71, the low metal content is maintained. Since there is a ban on amines (21 CFR standard), the regulatory standards are adhered to during testing and actual development for various applications.
• Even after long term storage there is no precipitation.
• Common uses across industries make solvents metal complex dyes important for manufacturers to cater to demands.

Applications by industry

• Leather topcoats
• Wax, candles, varnishes and spirit
• Printing Inks (gravure, offset and flexographic)
• Stationary inks
• Wood Staining
• Plastic dyes for engineering plastic
• Paints –solvent-based, industrial and automotive
• Aluminum foil printing
• Metalized polyester films

Various shades can be created depending on the industrial requirement. For example, for making wax, candles and spirit the spectrum of colors supplied include:

• Solvent yellow 2
• Solvent yellow 14, 56, 62
• Solvent Red 23 and 24
• Solvent Orange 2, 7
• Solvent Blue 35, 36
• Solvent Black 5, 7
• Solvent green 3, 7

There is also a high grade and range available for polymer soluble solvent dyes for engineering plastic.

To ensure that each shade is created manufacturers offer quality assurance for all solvent metal complex dyes for raw materials and also finished prodcuts. The testing lab is well-equipped with important infrastructure that contains:

• Filter Index machine to test FPV values according to the regulatory norms
• Accurate moisture testing with Karl-Fischer
• Melting point apparatus
• Injection molding machines
• Applicator for solvent soluble dyes
• Wet testing (titration, purity analysis and N.V)
• Dyeing machines for specific acid dyes

In-house facilities that offer these critical points give manufacturers an edge to have a global presence.  Continuous R & D also add immense value to the processes, technicality and outcome.

Analytical applications of pH indicator by dye manufacturers

admin Feb 16, 2023

Testing via pH indicators is a critical process done by dye manufactures for their clients.
Since it has targeted analytical applications it has to be monitored as dyes are very
sensitive do pH alterations. Colorants can have a marked change if testing is faulty and it
does not meet the client’s specific purpose. Compatible pH ranges affect the processes for
the creation of all product lines. That is why pH indicators have a large role play in this
industry.
In order to understand how dyes will be impacted, this testing procedure needs to be
implemented in a methodical manner at the manufacturer’s laboratory.

What do pH indicators do?

The indicator has the ability to work as halochromic chemical compound. It is blended with
a solution in small measures to get the ideal pH range. Various indicators reveal the color
and change its physical properties. For example, methyl orange is used as a pH indicator
which is useful for dyeing and printing textiles sectors. It can be developed according to the
industry standards by optimal testing procedures. The halochromic materials for textiles

have diverse end-use applications. With the help of pH sensors, it adds to the economic
dyeing process with limitations. Fast colors are always preferred by customers who use
fabrics for many purposes. Hence, the pH sensitivity and its color changing characteristic is
important for different materials. There is always a performance gap between lab testing
and actual dyeing process as fibre interactions fluctuate. Hence, manufacturers develop pH
sensors with indicator dyes. It is used in the traditional dyeing process. The pH solution has
to be compatible to the solution for dissolving dyes. That is why some dyes are always used
with caution. They cause problems and only technical experts are able to identify the areas
being affected. They offer trusted solutions for proper testing with the right instruments.

What does testing involve?

When testing is done for end-uses of the pH indicator analysis, it is measured for color
fastness for:
 Laundering
 Light
 Unfinished & Finished dye pH responses
 Determination of the response time
 Water and oil repellency

Why analysis of pH sensitivity is significant?

The sensors are indicative of the safety level or the harm they can have on the skin after
prolonged use. Hence, it is important for the industry to be more sensitive not only towards
the environment but also to human skin. Textile fabrication processes need advanced
solutions to tackle sensitivity. Thus indicator functions are important and integral in the
finished products.

pH indicator dyes other applications

While it cannot be argued that pH indicator dyes are prominent for fabrics and dyeing
processes. As biological stain dyes they reveal structures in medicine to study polymer
foundations. Metal ions are detected by testing methods.
They are also used for:
 Water Treatment
 Product Sanitization
 Analysis in laboratories
The usage indicates if there is any other foreign substance which is visible when the color
changes.
Some of the leading pH indicators and biological dyes are:
 Eosin

 Acid Red 92
 Flourescein
 Methyl Orange
 Titan yellow
 Basic Brown
These applications are prominent in dyeing and printing textile sectors. Indian
manufacturers offer a wide range in tamper proof finish cater to global demands annually.

An Introductory Guide to Inorganic Chemical Pigments

admin Feb 16, 2023

Inorganic pigments or chrome pigments as they are also known are produced with the use of inorganic, heavy chemicals, which is how the pigments get their name. There are several industries that make extensive use of the inorganic range of pigments such as the paints, inks and plastic industries. Since the pigments are inorganic and made with the use of heavy metals, the uses of the pigments are mainly in areas such as for road marking paints, exterior paints for buildings and structures or for master batches of plastic grains. Interestingly, the master batch makers of plastic grains have the highest demand for quality oriented and globally trusted manufacturers of inorganic pigments in India as well as in other countries across the globe.

There are several products such as lemon or middle chrome in the range of inorganic pigments which are extremely high in demand in the paint industry. Particularly, the paint that is used for road marking, makes use of products such as lemon or middle chrome from among the products included in the inorganic pigment range. One major reason for the great demand of inorganic pigments in the road
marking paint is due to the fact that the pigment is cost effective and proves to be a viable alternative as compared to the other costlier options available. Most road marking paint manufacturers opt for lemon chrome or middle chrome pigments from manufacturers that have the backing of experience and work in a quality and service oriented manner.

Inorganic pigments also include the anti-corrosive category of pigments which are used in the coating of pipes that need to be protected from corrosion. The pigments manufactured using zinc chromate, zinc tetroxy chromate or zinc phosphate are greatly in demand for use in pipes that have to transport gases, liquids and semi-solids. The pigment type helps in keeping the pipe surfaces free of corrosion and in turn
helps in keeping the functionality of the pipes optimal even after prolonged use. It is important that the most trusted and reliable inorganic pigments are used for the anti-corrosive coating, which is why it helps to obtain the pigments from certified and experienced manufacturers only. The product that is most commonly and popularly used for the anti-corrosive coating solution is scarlet chrome, which gives
the red appearance to the finished product and which is commonly seen on most pipes used for purposes such as in the creation of fire safety systems.

Inorganic pigments also find extensive use for painting the exteriors of buildings and other structures. Most buildings are coated with paints made using inorganic pigments because of the excellent light fastness that the pigments offer. The pigments are able to stand strong in the face of heat, light, wind and rain, which makes it an ideal choice for long lasting exterior paint used in construction projects. No
matter, what the use of the inorganic pigment is, it is important that it is procured from the most trusted and internationally acclaimed manufacturer to be able to attain the most desired results.

The Ambit Of Azo-Pigments

admin Feb 16, 2023

Motivity of Pigments and dyes majorly lies in their high performance and the demand in the market.

Paint and coatings sales are projected to accelerate as a result of rapid urbanization and faster construction expenditures. As a result, significant avenues for organic pigments market expansion will emerge.

Organic pigments are carbon molecules that have been created deliberately and are used to colour substances. In contrast to inorganic pigments, which generate solid hues, organic pigments yield transparent colours.

These pigments are more eco-sustainable than inorganic pigments and produce vibrant colours, especially in printing inks.

According to the latest industry analysis, the market for organic pigments is expected to expand at a CAGR of 5% between 2021 and 2031.

Organic pigments’ propensity to provide vibrant colour richness has led to their widespread use in a variety of sectors. The market will continue to rise steadily, owing to the rising demand for ornamental paints from the building and construction industry.

Wherein Azo pigments are expected to pool in around 3.9% revenue share of the global colour pigments market.

Azo pigments account for most of the organic red, orange, and yellow tints.

The market is observing a consistently thriving demand for the Red coloured Azo pigments as the data reads a Year-on-Year (YoY) growth of 3.4% in 2021 to a total of 100,437 tons of red-coloured Azo pigments.

Colour palette of Red Azo pigments at Alliance Organics LLP.

The factors on which the market witnesses a surging clamour of Azo pigments are primarily listed;

• Efficiency
• Eco-Supportive
• Application in Consumer-industries

Organic pigments’ obscurity and resilience will enhance their areas of applications in the plastics industry, boosting sales prospects. Azo pigments, of extensive variety, were indeed acquiring a great deal of traction.

Key points from the Market Analysis:

Global organic pigments market to top US$ 6 Bn by 2031. Azo pigments are expected to reach around US$ 2.5 Bn by 2031. Phthalocyanine pigments are anticipated to value above 4% CAGR over the next decade.

Over the projection timeframe of 2021-2031, the European industry is poised to increase at a rate of 3%.

By 2031, the US market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4%.

• Asia – Pacific region is the most profitable region, accounting for more than 50%revenue by 2031.
• South America’s market is estimated to grow at a rate of more than 4.5 percent per year over the next decade
• Over the projected period, rising demand for paints and varnishes is likely to fuel the need for azo pigments.

Demand for azo pigments is predicted to rise as a result of new rules governing the use and manufacturing of traditional pigments.

To some extent, the high cost of azo pigments is impeding the overall market growth.

All About Wood Stain Dyes

admin Feb 16, 2023

Mahogany, Cherry, Alter, Beige Oak, Walnut, Birch and what not, more than fifty shades of Wooden textures are worth fantasizing about the interiors of your house and workspace.

Wood stain dyes are used to embrace wooden surfaces by imparting hues to them to make them more imploring. Impregnating wooden stuff using a wood stain escalates the augmented wood grain. Wood stain dye, sometimes, find its use in either concealing murky wood grains or recasting the organic ones.

Contemporary wood staining was done by conventional techniques like immersing tobacco in ammonia and water. However, by virtue of advancements in recent developments, Wood stain dye, nowadays comes in ample variety majorly including solvent bases.

What is Wood Stain Dye?

Wood stain or wood tint doesn’t only make the wooden products look appealing but also finishes the product by adding a protective layer on it. The wood tint is predominantly used for colouring the wood and to give depth to the original wood grain. The building makeup of a wood dye consists of a colourant (substance/pigment that imparts colour) and a solvent (alcohol/water) which is also termed as a vehicle as it facilitates the colourant to give the Chroma.

Types of Wood Stain Dyes:

The basis of classification of the dyes are of two types:

1. Based on Composition

• Oil-based wood stain – Gives uniform finishing, deeper penetration and higher durability.
• Water-based wood stain – Dries easily, capable of withstanding mildew and environmental friendly.
• Gel-stain – good concealing properties, easy to apply,no dripping and no need for sanding.
• Lacquer wood stain – easy to apply and dries faster
• Water-soluble wood stain – ample variety of colours, does not murk wood and has low maintenance.
• Metallized wood stain- Best for bare wood and resistant to fading
• Varnish wood stain – organic natural look, hard to dry, protection from dirt and water.

2. Based on Pigmentation

• Adsorption (surface water stains)
  These stains are superficial as they dry on the surface of wood just after application. They make the wood imperishable and resistant to tenderness.
• Absorption (penetrating wood stains)
  They are thoroughly absorbed down in the wood. Their site of drying is inside the wood. They maintain the authentic look of wood grain as it does not conceal its natural finish.

Anything and everything made up of wood can be stained and dyed, so furnish your wooden stuff and dress up your living area, working area, kitchen and witness the gorgeous wood castle that you can create out of it.

Application Of Basic Dyes For Paper Industry

admin Feb 16, 2023

Looking upon the chronicle use of dyes, the paper and pulp industry seeks the most primitive position.

Dyestuff manufacturers offer a wide range of colorants with due innovation to serve quality products for their customers. Basic dyes find their prominent presence in paper dyeing processes. The paper dyeing industry put all their diligence of dyeing paper into the ultimate use of the paper.

Depending upon the consistency of the constituent used in dyestuff, paper is dyed bifurcation, as in powder as well as liquid form. The final abode of the paper decides their colorants. Manufacturers keep their scope of dyestuff nearly for all vivid uses such as cardboard, tissue paper, recycle paper, depending upon the requirement of its application.

Basic dyes enhance the brightness and add depth with contrasting shades. Conventional basic dyes are now overtaken by imploring direct dyes to blend with basic dyes. Basic dyes are also seen as progressive for the environment. Blending dyes with the right pigment saturates the brightness of paper and these are termed optical brighteners.

Basic paper dyes are ideally suited for tinting papers used in the writing industry but achieving brilliant shades of colour on cardboard. Packaging paper can also be done using basic dyes.

Within the paper and pulp industry, all sorts of paper are included. Besides the paper used in the printing and press industry, the other arenas where papers are used are in producing facial tissue papers, envelope grades, cover papers, corrugated cases, specialty papers et cetera.

Following are the required characteristics of paper dyes to stand out in the paper dyeing industry –

• Must possess affinity towards the selected paper.
• Should be fastened to light.
• Paper bleeding should be eliminated.
• Should withstand moisture and humidity.
• Temperature stability.
• Regulatory compliant.
• Optimum depth.
• Safe to handle.

Some classic examples of basic dyes for paper are crystal violet, toluidine blue, methylene blue, malachite green, etc.

The build-up material of paper that is cellulose typically consists of negatively charged cell walls, in contrast, basic dyes acquire positive charges, so when basic dyes are applied over the walls of cellulose the positive chromophores in basic dyes tend to stick to the cell wall making them positive stains.

Chromophores are the part of the molecule responsible for its colour which is present as a cation.

Reaching towards the concluding lines, in order to attain colour perfections in your products, it is intelligently important to source colorants from reputed manufacturers.

Types And Applications Of Synthetic Food Colours

admin Feb 16, 2023

Adding colours to food plays with both episodic as well as semantic memory.
Food colourants are additive dyes that impart various appealing hues to the food substance. Food colours can be natural or synthetic. Natural food colours are the ones that are produced naturally by extracting colours from organic veggies. The other class of colours falls as inorganic or synthetic colours which are produced chemically. The precursor compounds are modified through a wide range of chemical processes. The way in which our brain reflexes, we expect to acquire the taste of food as it appears. Neurologically we perceive that any black appearing food is either burnt or maybe bitter in taste, if any food has a tint of orange in it that means it is tangy, red food automatically appears to be spicy and there are many more perceptions of food we conjure. Synthetic colours are classified into Azo dyes, triarylmethane dyes and chemically related colours.

All the colourants or food dyes are authorised as food additives in the EU. EU is the packaging that approves the food additives and these are mostly written with the prefix of E. This authorisation is given by INS (International numbering system for food additives), an European based naming system for food additives. Azo dyes include tartrazine , amaranth, allura red AC et cetera. Triarylmethane dyes include patent blue, brilliant blue and green S and chemically related colours are like quinoline yellow, erythrosine, etc.

JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO expert committee on food additives) administered the globally accepted guidelines to evaluate the safety of these food additives.

Alliance Organics LLP manufactures food colour dyes that comply with these guidelines considering the dosage limit of food additives. Food colours vary and they are primary colours, blended food colours and lake colours. This segregation of colours is done based on their solubility.

Primary colours are water soluble so they get washed off easily. Citing a classic example, lollipops that ink the tongue of kids are dyed using water soluble colours.

The other class is Lake colours. Lake colours have oil coating over them so they don’t get washed off easily when encountered with water or moisture. Mostly the seasoned food consists of Lake colours.

This prevents the soiling of hands as the colour doesn’t get impregnated on the surfaces. The major consumption of Lake colours is done by the food industry, to be more specific the pet food industry. The Pet food industry has no confined dosage of consumption of food colours which ultimately makes the pet food manufacturers use tempting food tints which thereby leads to greater demands from the masses.