Merck gold pearlescent pigment

Types of merck gold pearlescent pigment

Pearlescent pigments are innovative manufacturing pigments that create different colours. They offer unique colour-shifting for paints, cosmetics and coatings. They are made through a patented process that allows the pigment to exhibit a metallic shimmer with a change in angle and lighting view.

According to research, two main types of Merck pearlescent pigments are available and often used:

• Mica-based pearlescent pigments

  Mica-based merck gold pearlescent pigment is the most common due to its excellent optical properties.

  Mica powder serves as a base and is coated with different materials, such as titanium dioxide or iron oxide, to achieve different colours and effects. This pigment gives a soft, deep glow when blended into systems like water, air-dry and solvent-based paints. It can also be used in different cosmetic products, such as eyeshadow, lip gloss and highlighter.

• Glitter-like effect pigment

  This type of pigment is made from synthetic materials rather than mica. They are usually polyethyl terephthalate (PET) or glass flakes. These pigments are ideal for customers who are looking for a vegan alternative to cosmetics that have shimmering effect. They are specifically designed to reflect light in the same manner as traditional pearlescent pigments for an extra shine effect.

Applications of merck gold pearlescent pigment

The Merck pearlescent pigments have found a place in numerous industries and offer practical benefits and aesthetic value. Here are some of the applications:

• Cosmetics

  The cosmetics industry is the major user of Pearlescent pigment. They are used in eyeshadows, highlighters, foundations and lipsticks to create different colour effects. Depending on the angle of view and lighting, the pigments shift colours offer a natural glow or dazzling effect.

• Automotive paints

  Pearlescent pigments are also commonly used in making car paints. This is due to the sophisticated shimmer they add to the vehicle's surface. The pigments enhance the paint colour and increase the vehicle's visual depth. This feature helps the vehicle stand out when under different lighting conditions.

• Industrial coatings

  These pigments are also used in industrial coatings. This includes coatings applied to machinery, equipment and infrastructure. They improve the aesthetic value and offer additional benefits like increased weather resistance and better heat reflection. This makes the machinery and equipment more energy efficient and durable.

• Plastics

  Pearlescent pigments are incorporated into plastics for consumer goods, such as electronics, toys and home appliances. They make the plastic surfaces more appealing without compromising chemical or physical properties. This means the plastic will have an enhanced aesthetic look but still remain durable and effective.

• Spa and arts industry

  Pearlescent pigments are integral to several spa and arts products. They are included in items like plaster, paint and inks for artists. They also used in architectural finishes because of the subtle colour change they offer. This becomes an effective tool for artists and architects to create unique and aesthetically pleasing finishes.

Merck gold pearlescent pigment composition and maintenance

Pearlescent pigments have a unique reflective property that creates a lustrous, shimmering appearance on the coated surface. This is achieved by stacking thin, transparent flakes of mica or silica. The silicone polyester resins bind the layers together while delivering them flexibility and adhesion to the surface.

The physiochemical properties, such as particle size and thickness and the flake's orientation, determine how the pigments interact with light. When light strikes the pigment, the different layers refract and reflect it, resulting in chromatic effects.

The Pearl pigment consists of different materials, including:

• Substrates

  They are usually well-known for their translucency and optical quality. Mica is a naturally occurring mineral with thin, layered flakes. It is the most commonly used substrate for pearlescent pigments. Other substrates often used are synthetic mica, silica, glass and alumina. These are chosen depending on the desired effect.

• Optical effect materials

  Optical effect materials are often added to the pearlescent pigments. They are usually metallic oxides like titanium dioxide and iron oxide. The main reason for incorporating them is to enhance the pigments' colour and shimmer properties. These materials fundamentally alter how light interacts with the pigment layers. Thus, producing different chromatic effects.

• Coating materials

  Pearlescent pigments also have different layers or coatings that improve their optical quality and stability. These coatings are usually made from various metal oxides or organic and inorganic compounds. Examples include titanium dioxide and silica.

  The addition of these materials will cause the pigment to have exceptional properties. Such as increased durability and enhanced pearlescence.

How to choose Merck gold pearlescent pigments

When choosing Merck pigments, buyers should consider the following parameters:

• Product functionality

  The main factor to consider is the pigment's functionality. Some pigments offer a silvery sheen, while others deliver a bold sparkle. Buyers should choose pigments that will suit the specific needs of clients.

• Texture and finish

  Pearlescent pigments greatly vary in size and shape. This will greatly affect the texture and finish it offers in the end product. For instance, finer pigments tend to offer smoothness in the cosmetic products. On the other hand, coarser pigments provide more pronounced shimmer in paints and coatings.

• Application

  Merck gold pearlescent pigments are versatile and can be incorporated into various products ranging from automotive paints to cosmetics. Buyers should ensure that the desired pigment is compatible with the medium. This is from water-based to solvent-based systems. Such compatibility will ensure optimal dispersion and stability.

• Market trends

  The pearlescent pigments market is ever-evolving. New formulations and innovative applications are being introduced frequently. Buyers should stay ahead of the trends and ensure that recently launched products are in stock for unique clientele experiences.

• Manufacturer reputation

  In this case, buyers should consider the manufacturer's reputation and expertise. This can be achieved by researching Merck's background and quality assurance practices. Strong industry experience will ensure buyers receive products that will consistently deliver quality performance.

Q&A

Q1: Are Merck pearlescent pigments safe for cosmetics?

A1: Yes. Merck pearlescent pigments are made using body-safe materials. Thus, they conform to stricter international regulations. This guarantees their safety for use in different industries, particularly in cosmetics.

Q2: How to incorporate these pigments into formulated products?

A2: It is recommended to mix the pigments with the product base's medium. This will be done during the formulation phase followed by homogenization to ensure they are evenly dispersed. This evenly mixes the pigments to enhance consistency and optimise the pearlescent effect for a better joint product appearance.

Q3: What is the main difference between pearlescent and iridescent pigments?

A3: Pearlescent pigments provide a subtle, shimmering effect with a silky, matte finish. While iridescent pigments offer a more pronounced colour shift, they sparkle with a high shine. Depending on the angle of view, this distinction is crucial for formulators to select the appropriate pigment based on desired visual properties.