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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Crystallization matters for wrapping and nucleation. When organic pigments are used they affect the cooling process which is done for injection molding.
- 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.