Understanding the Difference between Organic and Inorganic Pigments

admin Oct 9, 2023

When it comes to pigments, there are two primary categories that are widely used: organic and inorganic pigments. Both types have their own unique properties, applications, and benefits. In this blog, we will delve into the difference between organic and inorganic pigments, explore their importance, discuss their uses, and determine which one may be better suited for specific applications.

Organic Pigments

Organic pigments are colorants derived from carbon-based compounds, either obtained naturally or synthesized chemically. These pigments offer a wide range of vibrant and intense colors, making them popular choices in industries such as art, cosmetics, textiles, plastics, inks, and dyes. They are known for their excellent light fastness, ensuring resistance to fading when exposed to sunlight or other environmental factors. Additionally, organic pigments exhibit good transparency, tinting strength, and color purity, allowing for the creation of rich and vivid hues. Their versatility and broad color range make them essential components in various applications requiring vibrant and long-lasting colors.

Inorganic Pigments

Inorganic pigments are colorants that are derived from mineral-based compounds and do not contain carbon. These pigments offer a more limited color range compared to organic pigments but excel in producing earth tones, metallic colors, and stable lightfast shades. Inorganic pigments are known for their exceptional durability and resistance to heat, light, and chemicals, making them ideal for applications that require long-lasting and weather-resistant colors. They find extensive use in architectural coatings, ceramics, industrial coatings, concrete, bricks, tiles, plastics, glass, and printing inks. Inorganic pigments are valued for their durability and ability to withstand environmental factors, making them a preferred choice in applications where resilience and stability are crucial.

Difference between Organic and Inorganic Pigments

Organic and inorganic pigments are two distinct categories of colorants used in various industries. Understanding the difference between these pigments is essential in selecting the appropriate option for specific applications. Here are the key contrasts between organic and inorganic pigments:

Composition:

Organic pigments are derived from carbon-based compounds, often obtained from natural sources or chemically synthesized. In contrast, inorganic pigments are mineral-based compounds that do not contain carbon. They are typically sourced from naturally occurring minerals or produced through chemical processes.

Color Range:

Organic pigments offer a wide range of vibrant and intense colors. Their chemical structure allows for a more extensive color spectrum, including bright and bold hues. On the other hand, inorganic pigments have a more limited color range. They excel in producing earth tones, metallic colors, and stable lightfast shades.

Light fastness:

Light fastness refers to a pigment’s ability to resist fading when exposed to sunlight or other environmental factors. Organic pigments generally exhibit excellent light fastness, making them suitable for outdoor applications. They can maintain their color intensity and vibrancy for extended periods. Inorganic pigments also possess good light fastness, ensuring durability and resistance to fading.

Durability:

Inorganic pigments are known for their exceptional durability and resistance to heat, light, and chemicals. They offer excellent stability and permanence, making them ideal for applications that require long-lasting and weather-resistant colors. Organic pigments, while still durable, may not have the same level of resilience as inorganic pigments.

Applications:

Organic pigments are commonly used in the production of inks, dyes, cosmetics, and artist paints. Their vibrant colors and light fastness make them suitable for artistic and outdoor applications, such as automotive paints, textiles, and plastics. Inorganic pigments find extensive use in architectural coatings, ceramics, industrial coatings, concrete, bricks, tiles, plastics, glass, and printing inks. They are preferred for applications that demand durability and resistance to environmental factors.

Choosing the Best Pigment:

Selecting the best pigment depends on the specific requirements of the application. Factors to consider include color range, light fastness, durability, chemical stability, and intended use. Organic pigments are often favoured for their vibrant colors, light fastness, and versatility. In contrast, inorganic pigments are valued for their durability and resistance. Consulting experts or pigment suppliers can provide valuable guidance in making informed decisions.

In conclusion, organic pigments are derived from carbon-based compounds and offer a wide range of vibrant colors. They are known for their excellent light fastness and versatility, making them popular in various industries. On the other hand, inorganic pigments are derived from mineral-based compounds and excel in producing earth tones and metallic colors. They are highly durable and resistant to heat, light, and chemicals, making them ideal for applications that require long-lasting and weather-resistant colors. Understanding these differences enables informed decisions regarding pigment selection, ensuring optimal color performance and durability in different applications.

Natural Food Colors vs. Synthetic Food Colors: A Comparative Analysis

admin Oct 4, 2023

The world of food is not just about taste; it’s also about presentation. The vibrant colors of our favorite dishes play a significant role in our dining experience. Food colors, whether natural or synthetic, have become an integral part of the food industry. They enhance the visual appeal of our meals, making them more appetizing and enticing. However, there’s an ongoing debate about which type of food color is better: natural or synthetic. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the differences between natural and synthetic food colors and explore their best uses in various culinary applications.

Natural Food Colors:

Natural food colors are derived from sources found in nature, such as fruits, vegetables, spices, and other plant-based ingredients. They have been used for centuries to add color to various foods and beverages. The extraction process typically involves crushing, juicing, or boiling the natural source to obtain pigments, which are then purified and used as food coloring agents. Some common examples of natural food colors include beetroot extract (red), turmeric (yellow), spinach extract (green), and anthocyanins from berries (blue and purple).

Synthetic Food Colors:

Synthetic food colors, on the other hand, are artificially created in laboratories using chemical compounds. These colors are often more vibrant and stable than their natural counterparts, making them a popular choice for the food industry. Synthetic food colors are typically available in liquid, powder, or gel form and can be easily mixed to achieve the desired shade. Some well-known synthetic food colors include Tartrazine (Yellow #5), Red 40, and Blue 1, which are often denoted by numerical codes on ingredient labels.

Differences Between Natural and Synthetic Food Colors:

1. Source:

Natural Food Colors: As the name suggests, natural food colors are sourced from plants, fruits, vegetables, and other natural ingredients. They are minimally processed and are generally considered safe for consumption.

Synthetic Food Colors: Synthetic food colors are chemically synthesized in laboratories. They do not originate from natural sources and are created through a series of chemical reactions.

2. Chemical Composition:

Natural Food Colors: The pigments in natural food colors are composed of naturally occurring compounds, such as chlorophyll, carotenoids, and anthocyanins. These compounds are often rich in antioxidants and can have additional health benefits.

Synthetic Food Colors: Synthetic food colors are composed of artificial chemical compounds, which may include coal-tar derivatives and petroleum-based chemicals. Some of these synthetic colors have raised concerns about potential health risks when consumed in large quantities.

3. Color Variability:

Natural Food Colors: Natural food colors may exhibit variations in color intensity due to factors such as the source, growing conditions, and extraction methods. They tend to produce more muted and earthy tones compared to synthetic colors.

Synthetic Food Colors: Synthetic food colors offer a wider range of vibrant and consistent colors. They can be precisely controlled to achieve specific shades, making them ideal for producing brightly colored foods and beverages.

4. Stability:

Natural Food Colors: Natural food colors are generally less stable than synthetic ones. They may fade or change color when exposed to factors like heat, light, and pH levels, which can limit their use in certain applications.

Synthetic Food Colors: Synthetic food colors are highly stable and less prone to fading or degradation when exposed to environmental factors. This stability makes them suitable for a wide range of food products, including baked goods, candies, and beverages.

5. Labeling and Regulation:

Natural Food Colors: In many countries, natural food colors are often considered more desirable by consumers due to their natural origin. However, there can be variations in labeling regulations, and not all natural food colors are universally accepted as safe.

Synthetic Food Colors: Synthetic food colors are subject to strict regulation and approval processes by food safety authorities, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). They are generally considered safe when used within specified limits.

Which Is Best for Each Usage?

1. Baking and Confectionery:

Synthetic food colors are the preferred choice for baking and confectionery because they offer bright, consistent colors that remain vibrant after baking. They are ideal for decorating cakes, cookies, and candies, as well as for creating colored icings and frostings.

2. Beverages:

Beverages often require stable colors that won’t fade or change when exposed to light and heat. Synthetic food colors are commonly used in soft drinks, sports drinks, and fruit juices to achieve the desired visual appeal.

3. Health and Wellness Products:

When it comes to health and wellness products, such as dietary supplements and herbal remedies, natural food colors are often preferred. Consumers seeking products with minimal artificial additives may find natural colors more appealing.

4. Savory Foods:

Savory foods, such as soups, sauces, and savory snacks, can benefit from the earthy and muted tones of natural food colors. These colors blend well with savory flavor profiles without overpowering them.

5. Natural and Organic Products:

Natural food colors align with the preferences of consumers seeking organic and natural food products. They are often the go-to choice for manufacturers catering to this market segment.

Conclusion:

The choice between natural and synthetic food colors ultimately depends on the specific application and consumer preferences. While synthetic food colors offer vibrant and stable colors for many processed foods and beverages, natural food colors have gained popularity due to their natural origin and potential health benefits. Both types of food colors have their merits and are safe for consumption when used within regulatory limits.

In an increasingly health-conscious world, the demand for natural food colors has been on the rise, challenging the dominance of synthetic counterparts in some segments of the food industry. As food manufacturers and consumers continue to prioritize clean labels and natural ingredients, natural food colors are likely to see increased usage in a variety of products. However, the choice between natural and synthetic food colors should always be guided by the specific requirements of the product and the expectations of the target audience.

Everything to know about Reactive Dyes

admin Feb 17, 2023

There are a lot of different kinds of dyes that are used in the making of colored fabrics.
However, in the manufacturing of fabrics like Cotton, reactive dyes are most commonly used. It is known that a lot of textile manufacturers working on cotton fabrics choose to procure their dyes from the most viable reactive dyes suppliers in India. In order to understand the importance of the best dye manufacturers, it is important to know how reactive dyes work and why they are most suitable for fabrics like cotton. In the application process of a reactive dye, the dye reacts with the surface to form a chemical bond with the fiber and the process then leads to the dye becoming a part of the fiber. The chemical reaction that takes place in the process of dying is what gives the name ‘reactive dyes’ to the range of dyes

It is observed that among a lot of different dyes options, the reactive black dye is most widely demanded which is why the best reactive black dyes manufacturers have commonly sought after. reactive dyes suppliers in India are also in great demand because the variety of dyes has very good light and wash fastness. The reactive dyes also end up giving a brighter and more attractive appearance to the fabric on which it is applied, which is why textile manufacturers choose to use the dyes variety. More and more textile manufacturers also place their bets on the reactive dyes because the method of dying with the dyes is simple and needs lower dying temperatures helping in further speeding up the process.

While the reactive dyes have a wide range of advantages for textile manufacturers, the most important characteristic of the dyes is that the best reactive dyes suppliers in India are able to provide the dyes at the most economical ranges. The affordability of the dyes variety is another factor that gives a great push to its sales and use. It is also known that reactive dyes are sustainable in nature, which is something that is highly preferred by a lot of textile manufacturers. Using sustainable dyes can help manufacturers in doing their bit for the environment. Reactive dyes suppliers in India, vouch for the fact that the range of dyes is eco-friendly because they are not known to be as chemically harmful as some other dyes are. The dyes also indirectly help in reducing waste as the dyes have a longer life which also contributes longevity to the textiles that they are applied to.

With the characteristics and the advantages of reactive dyes, CARE ratings suggest growth of about 8.5% by the financial year 2022. It is also predicted that the growth will mainly see a steady increase because of the export volumes of the reactive dyes suppliers in India.

How Indian manufacturers conduct stringent QC for food colors and lake colors – Focus on F & B and Cosmetic Industry supplies

admin Feb 17, 2023

There is a strong reason why colorants are important for industries related to Food and Beverage and cosmetics. As natural tones tend to vanish, fade or expire, shelf life of the product is limited. Hence, colorants are required to enhance the texture, tonal quality and length of its consumption. However, they are prepared under controlled conditions. Strict policies are followed to conduct stringent quality control in the labs.

We explain how coloring has a long-term effect and how manufacturers conduct lab tests to improve flavors to avoid allergy.

Focus on Indian manufacturers

India is a leading player in the field of manufacturing Food Colours for Food & Beverage and cosmetic industries. Color is an active component for make up where one needs to differentiate shades of lipsticks, eye shades, nail polishes and foundation creams. In the Food & Beverage industry synthetic food colors enhance look of the product . For example, turmeric, roses and violet sugar have been used since ancient times to preserve food. Earlier, only such natural dyes were used as solvents. Now most foods contain ‘permitted food colors’ as recommended by FDA or European Commission for testing food color or JEFCA. Manufacturers have to adhere to the policies and standards by these three international authorities. India is a hub for making food colors and lake colors. All manufacturers have to comply to international standards set by these establishments.

Tests for QC

Quality control begins at a sophisticated testing lab. Various tests are conducted for allergy, customized manufacturing, raw material analysis, strength & tone with the treatment of spray dried powder. Harmful chemicals, dyes or pigments are avoided for safety and health of the people consuming the products. Both, food and cosmetic industry have critical requirements where the ‘exact color’ is important for product acceptance. Technology and tools provide accuracy while conducting the testing and help teams to:

• Make objective analysis before the actual product is made.
• Reports are prepared with different tests for analysis.
• Visualize the ultimate product result.
• Get consistent color quality with food and lake colors.
• Helps in productivity and cost estimation.
• Adherence to authorities.

Dyes and lake colors

There are 2 types of color additives approved by FDA, European Commission for testing food color and JEFCA. They are referred as dyes (water soluble) and lakes (not soluble in water). High quality pigments are made only after stringent quality control tests. Lake colors are made with soluble dyes and addition of metallic salts. They are mixed with fat, sugar and various oils. The aluminum lake colors are found commonly in eye makeup and for coating drugs.

Safety first

The makeup industry is worth trillions of dollars across the globe. As different make up products touch the human skin for long, raw materials have to be skin-friendly. Latest trends may bring in new colors. But standard adherence for QC has to be maintained to stay away from legal and medical problems.

The colorants have to be:

1. Consistent to use
2. Have stability
3. No allergy reactions
4. Follow mandatory international laws

Manufacturers who follow the testing standards for QC are always preferred to do business.

Migration of manufacturing dyes and pigments to Asian companies – Indian suppliers meet mandatory international protocols

admin Feb 17, 2023

The dyes and pigment manufacturing companies are poised for a new growth in Asia. The business shift from Western countries towards low cost development in Asia is the primary reason for this migration. But what’s more important is the delivery of quality products that marks the rise of Asian manufacturers particularly India. Low cost is not the only factor for this shift.

We offer other critical reasons that make Asia a better hub for producing quality pigments for a slew of other industries worldwide.

Mandatory qualities defining high-grade pigment production

While India boosts of many small and big manufacturers, there are a handful few who meet global client requirements. We all know pigments are vital to our daily life and why the right shades empower products ranging from textiles, cosmetics, paint, paper F & B and Pharma. This market is largely triggered by the need for coloring in the above industries to enhance their product values. They are valuable for coatings and printing inks which have versatile applications. Worldwide, the textile industry is the largest consumer for dyes and pigments. The Asia Pacific regions offers the best services, solutions and product customization.

Clients opt for vendors who deliver:

1. Wide range of pigments and dyes with multiple usage.
2. Technical expertise and professionals who understand industry trends.
3. Ideal pricing for customized colors and texture.
4. Good quality is adjudged by tests conducted before manufacturing.
5. Tests are important to sign the deal for the product production.
6. Timely packaging and delivery to the client.
7. Optimal customer service and support.

Manufacturers who adhere to government regulations and environmental policies are recognized as ideal service providers.

Latest production technologies

In Europe and western countries, environmental policies are more stringent and production expenses are mounting. In the Asia-Pacific region, manufacturers continue to follow international protocols to provide lower costs. Production technologies have improved in India. The manufacturers use the best equipment, infrastructure and automated systems to produce a flurry of pigments and dyes. It attracts more clients to do business in the sub-continent. The demand for reactive dyes and Pigments have increased due to good quality of product generation. The cheap labor and lowered operational costs bring more business. Being eco-friendly and affordable are other reasons why Indian manufacturers are preferred. Industries like paper, leather, cosmetics and textiles will always require the services of such manufacturers.

As the demands grow, this industry is likely to be worth USD 99 billion by 2021.

Which Asian manufacturer should y
ou do business with?

Since there are plenty of low cost manufacturers, it is best to have specific criteria to deal with the best vendors for your customized requirement. A company that has several services and product generation under a single hub is the ideal threshold. Look for an experienced lab which offers:

• Organic and inorganic pigments
• Food dyes and lake colors
• Dyes for soaps and detergents
• Phthalocyanine pigment
• Basic Dyestuffs
• Direct dyes
• Resist salt
• Solvent Dyesc
• Fluorescent dyes
• Plastic dyes

Manufacturers of Food Colours who follow the latest standards devised by FDA, European Commission for testing food colors and JECFA are preferred for business. They have certifications that are exhibited on the website.

Understanding the competitive vendor landscape of the global pigment markets

admin Feb 17, 2023

Across the world, the pigment market is characterized by organic, inorganic and specialty pigments. According to surveys, this market is poised to increase by 2022 and is currently worth nearly $ 26,598 million. The competition for high performance is geared towards Indian and Chinese vendors. They offer the best quality of pigments for a wide variety of industrial applications. Leading players in this segment adopt strategies to meet customer demands. In order to be a good supplier, it is important to understand the vendor landscape. A few vendors hold the key for a tight grip in this competitive market.

This blog explores reasons why Indian pigment makers score on the basis of diverse industrial parameters.

Segments of pigment producers

Global pigments market segmentation

Pigment producers from India have a distinct advantage against fierce competition due to performance and adherence to best practices for production. They cater to the needs of industries like paints and coatings, printing inks, plastics and construction materials. In order to understand the competition in global market, it is essential to know the key segments of this market. It is also important to note the parameters for competition which bring customers to Indian shores for their requirements.

Competition parameters

The Indian market producers have increased business by a volume of 133.52 million tons in the last few years. The demand for organic pigments is more and accounts for 58% of the production.

Source:

Factors that position Indian manufacturers on frontlines

Indian pigment producers score because of its geographic location. Global customers consider it a more organized sector compared to China. For example, paint manufacturers require high performance pigments to meet their customer demands. The most essential expectations are related to qualities like:

• Light fastness
• Weather resistance
• Stability towards heat
• Flexibility to produce the right blend of product
• Minimum downtime after sample approval
• Appropriate infrastructure for production and lab testing

Vendors from the sub-continent score high on all the above parameters. They recognize this need and manage internal challenges within the manufacturing hub. Hence, they meet the demands with a wide product portfolio. The technicians offer a myriad palette for daily and fast colors and special effects. Manufacturers having comprehensive testing labs to meet accurate demands as performance scores are. Being error free makes the product more viable when produced in bulk. Technical experts use the application lab for stringent tests so that the product behavior is simulated in real market situations. Ideal solution providers ensure that eventually the actual pigment product bring the same results as proven in the testing labs. Customers often return to the same pigment producer due this reason.

To have a long term hold over the markets manufacturers focus on:

• Quality of product after deliberate research and consultation with the customer
• Product testing is done in advanced labs
• Availability of product in market on time by understanding its limited lifecycle
• Security of supply across continents and logistics taken care by professionals
• After sales customer services
• Offering easily dispersible pigments used in applications for paints and coatings, printing inks and plastics.
• Recognizing color trends and advising customers to take advantage of it.

Flexible pricing factors add to the return on investment for meeting specific requirements.  With continuous adoption of latest technological processes, it makes sense to deal with experienced pigment producers from the Indian markets.

Consequences of colorants on plastic polymer properties

admin Feb 17, 2023

The dying manufacturing processes are ruled by synthetic polymers which have distinct properties. The plastic industry requires several methods and applications of colored plastics. There are several complexities that define the consequences of colorants on plastic polymer properties. In order to understand injection molded plastic parts, we need to understand the coloring practices used by manufacturers.

This information is an attempt to recognize the correct choice of color

ants which can be either solvent dyes or pigments.

Prime focus on:

How to choose plastic colorants?

Injection molded plastics parts require various colorants. The polymers are often impacted by resistance towards UV rays or may even be responsible for breakage or bending. Therefore, material options need to be considered very carefully.  Suitability and characteristics are also affected by colorants. They also need to be compatible and the amount used is equally important. This is because different colors have different properties and it effects injection molded plastics in large way. Colorants can be solvent dyes or pigments. The later does not dissolve in the plastic but can be blended easily. They are ideal for transparent plastics where strong tints are required. Depending on the requirement the supplier is able to guide the client to make a choice. Colorants should be discussed ideally when the raw materials are being selected. Keeping the usage of the end product in mind there is also a need to check on durability. The manufacturer will also pay attention to environmental impact, capital costs and affordability.

As colorants effect polymer properties they should be decided early at the discussion stage. The following factors are crucial to keep in mind.

Process of inserting colors

This is done via compounding, masterbatching, dry blending or by surface coating. Each method has benefits. However, some colors impact the consistency and have variable costs. They impact the mechanical properties of the plastic.

Optimal color requirement

The polymer structure is defined by the colorant used. The amount used is vital. Anything more than 1-2% can be harmful and compatibility issues may arise. When more color is used the polymer structure itself is modified. This could harm the end product. Hence optimal color is done by experienced staff even during the trial runs in the testing labs.

Compatibility with polymer

This is an essential component from the supplier’s perspective.  If there is no basic compatibility between the polymer structure and the color being used, subsequent processes are ruined. Colors possess certain compounds that break down when heat is applied. If the color cannot resist the temperature the chemical compatibility is reduced. It becomes worse if other additives like a flame retardant is added.

Different colors produce different properties

When colors are used for transplant plastics, the results are quite different. Solvent dyes have a less toxic effect on the polymer structure. There are pigments used for opaque color tones and the end performance of the material may be modified. The manufacturer will need to run trials and various tests to check how different colors behave during molding. This is critical when the tolerance levels are stringent.

If you are looking for a supplier who will discuss these projections, it will add value to your basic requirements.  All these factors clarify complexities related to colorant and effects on polymers.

Why are eco-friendly dyes trending in the global markets?

admin Feb 17, 2023

The disruption in the dyestuffs industry began two decade ago. With the advent of eco-friendly dyes, there is yet another adjustment – business towards Asian markets. Indian intermediates seem to emerge as popular suppliers for global textiles and fabric sector. It boosts viability of the fashion industry which dangles on processes of fabric creation to a large extent.

We put the spotlight on acid dyes manufacturing processes required for the textile sector. They are used globally for wool, nylon and silk.

Overview about trends in acid dyes

India has the best production quality for dying processes. Manufacturers have caught up with the trends even for offering acid dyes for direct printing on various protein materials made of wool, viscose and silk.  There is nothing toxic about these eco-friendly dyes. These dyes have a classification depending on the characteristics they exhibit. These could be towards affinity to dying or the chemical structure.

The following graph depicts the 3 classes

Why global buyers are turning to Asian Dyestuffs Manufacturers?

India, in particular is the current hub for the Dyestuffs Production. Knowing fully well that there is a demand in the global market the manufacturers pay special attention to:

• Investment in extensive Research and Development for product creations
• Treatment of pollution vis a vis processes
• Capital investment and cost involved by Indian manufacturers

Why are eco-friendly dyes trending?

Various dying and finished processes have come into focus as demands for clothing constantly progresses. Globally enhancement in this sector is pressurized by the fashion industry and the end consumer to make processes more environmental-friendly. People are more health conscious and prefer wearing fabrics that support ecosystem and human resources involved in manufacturing process. The use of biodegradable dyes does not impact the rivers and workers adversely. European manufacturers took the decision to modify processes much before Asian markets. But being an expensive proposition the trending demands of textile industry have shifted towards Asian countries. The water wastage and treatment of pollution by manufacturers are keeping them in business. The thrust towards meeting demands also involve cost-effective production of various classes of dyes.

Best practices used by Asian Dye Manufacturers

• Adopting novel processes in manufacturing
• Usage of appropriate dyes for different industrial applications
• Investment in research and development
• Treatment of water pollution to keep workers and eco-system safe
• Meeting demands of global clients in a timely manner
• Helping them to produce fabrics that meet end consumer sensibilities
• New technologies are used to reduce wastage of water
• Apart of the capital investment meets updated regulatory policies
• Timely delivery to clients

Indian manufacturers based in Gujarat and Maharashtra support production of eco-friendly dyes and help their textile clients to compete globally. They now play an important role in supplying products all over the globe. Apart from producing good quality acid dyes a comprehensive portfolio also includes basic dyes, solvent dyes, direct dyes and reactive dyes.

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.