There is a growth of pigments from Asian countries to meet the global requirement and is on a steady rise. Pigments are critical components that are not soluble in water or any other media. In the coatings and plastic sector they play a huge role. As the demands increase, high performance pigments are entering a competitive market. Since coating and plastic sectors are the main sectors being served, striving to produce the best matters the most.

Indian manufacturers are keeping a critical eye on the new trends of customized pigment processes to honor commitments to customers. It helps them to produce several products with the right color strength with pigments with correct dispersibility in various resin systems.

Problems with industrial coatings

Inconsistency and incompatibility (of pigment dispersion) are two major issues that confront coatings at the industrial level. It changes the characteristic of the chemical tint. And if this happens then the costs of formulating the same is almost doubled. The correct color match is the key driver to solve the problem. However, it is a challenge for the manufacturer when a ‘color float’, inconsistent shade or rub-up occurs. How does an experienced manufacturer solve it with minimal damage to operations and efficiencies? It will largely depend on:

1. Advanced processes of pigment dispersion which works across different base types.
2. Maintaining batch consistency and keeping high performance pigmentation.
3. Minimizing re-formulation for variants of industrial coat bases.
4. Ensuring compatibility for tinting.

Keeping in touch with evolving markets

The new generation of high performance pigments are also used for building materials, textiles, inks and ceramics. In the coating industry, the durability, stability and application are being created with environmental friendly methods. The new standards of the EU have water borne coating. They are characterized by a low Newtonian viscosity. It is hydrophilic and gives the maximum rheology solutions to the formulators.

Getting pigment dispersion right for coatings

Whether it is for the first time or otherwise, three processes sum up getting the formulation right. They are:

1. Opting for screening and testing to ensure that stabilization is 100%. The paint process and analysis is largely dependent on it.
2. Understanding the degree of stabilization through various test methods.

Avoiding weld lines for plastics

Across the world, plastics continue to be used in daily life. Its versatile applications and vibrant colors add value to the products. Many compounders and processors have to constantly monitor to ensure pigment dispersion does not land in any pitfalls. Keeping an eye on thermal stability and chemical composition requires experience and expertise. They should not bleed or bloom and create complexity. In a manner they are similar to colorants but compounders need to discern the difference to produce high performance pigments for the plastic industry. There are grades of pigments ranging from the transparent and colored variants. They can be deposited or blended with the raw materials and also be enhanced with special effects. A number of combinations like interference or absorption of color produce different effects. Platelets of 10 to 40 microns offer an excellent glitter.

Do you need help to select the right tints, pigment dispersion and stability of your product? Vipul Organics have a full-fledged team to support your specific requirement. We are capable of resolving the most common and complex problems regarding customized pigment processes.