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Tiles are used in various places since they are durable, have a long lifespan, and can withstand hard usage in places like kitchens and bathrooms, which have high humidity. Tiles can be applied on the floor or walls and can be made of ceramic, porcelain, stone, or glass. They are often chosen on the basis of aesthetic looks and functional value. Pearlescent pigments for tiles play an important role in adding an appealing finish and making tiles look attractive. Below are the common types of pearlescent pigment for tile.
Mica-based Pearlescent Pigments
The most widely used type of pearlescent pigment is mica-based pigments. The pigments give a lustrous and shiny attractive appearance, which makes them ideal for use in cosmetic applications. Although mica-based pigments mostly find application in cosmetic products, they also can be used in ceramic glazes and decorative tiles. Their versatility enables them to be used in a wide range of applications. These pigments, which are known for their homogeneity and smoothness, are manufactured from natural mica minerals and are skin-coloring additive-free.
Mica-Coated Titanium Dioxide Pearlescent Pigments
Mica-coated titanium dioxide pigments have a base of mica mineral that is coated with titanium dioxide to enhance the opacity and whiteness of the pigment. The titanium dioxide coating gives the pigment a pearlescent shine, while the mica provides a base for the pigment composition. These pigments are often used in tiles where a bright and shiny finish is preferred, such as bathrooms and kitchens. They are also widely used in ceramics, coatings, plastics, and cosmetics.
Mica-Coated Iron Oxide Pearlescent Pigments
Mica-coated iron oxide pigments are similar to titanium dioxide pigments. The only difference is that instead of titanium dioxide, iron oxide forms the base pigment. Iron oxide gives the pigment rich and deep colors ranging from rust reds to golden yellows. These pigments are often used in ceramic tiles to achieve natural earth tones. The mica coating gives the pigments a subtle pearlescent sheen.
Synthetic Pearlescent Pigments
In recent years, synthetic pearlescent pigments have gained popularity. The pigments are manufactured using advanced technologies. For example, synthetic pigments are manufactured using silica, which is coated with various metal oxides like titanium dioxide and stannum. The metals used to coat the silica give the pigments their pearlescent effect. One main advantage of synthetic pigments is that they can be customized to achieve a wide range of effects and colors. Therefore, they make a suitable choice when aiming for a particular aesthetic effect.
When incorporated in tiles, pearlescent pigments enhance the aesthetic value of the tiles. The pigments provide a shiny and lustrous finish in tiles, making the tiles play an important role in improving the general interior decor. In addition to the aesthetic enhancement, pearlescent pigments in tiles also improve the functionality of the tiles. Below are the features of pearlescent pigments for tiles.
Color Changing Effect
One of the main features of pearlescent pigments is that they can change color depending on the viewing angle. Therefore, the pigments, which are also known as iridescent pigments, do not have a homogenous color but rather a range of colors, especially in the case of mica pigments. This effect gives tiles a unique and appealing look, which can change depending on the angle of view and the lighting conditions.
Shimmer and Shine
Pearlescent pigments have a characteristic shimmer and shining feature that is attributed to their composition. The pigments are made from fine particles of mica, which add a smooth and shiny texture to the surface. The metallic shine makes the tiles look elegant and sophisticated, which makes them suitable for use in upscale residential or commercial interiors. The amount of shimmer also can be controlled depending on the size and type of pearlescent pigment used. For example, smaller mica particles generally result in a delicate shimmer, while larger particles give a more pronounced shine.
Light Reflection
Pearlescent pigments are also able to reflect light in a unique way. The reflected light can create a dynamic effect on tiles. This can be especially beneficial in low-light environments, where the pigments catch and reflect light, making the room feel brighter and more open.
Opacity and Coverage
Besides their aesthetic appeal, pearlescent pigments also provide good opacity and coverage. They can effectively hide the underlying substrate in decorative applications. This makes them suitable for countertops that need to be decorated. The pigments, especially the synthetic ones, have excellent coverage properties. Therefore, only a small amount is required to achieve the desired effect.
Durability
Besides being visually appealing, pearlescent pigments are renowned for their durability. The pigments are formulated to be resistant to fading over time. This is because they are predisposed to UV rays and environmental factors. For this reason, tiles made with pearlescent pigments maintain their aesthetic appeal even after prolonged use.
Pearlescent pigments in tiles add not only an aesthetic value but also functional value. Different industries and fields have discovered the effectiveness of these pigments. Below are the common uses of pearlescent pigments for tiles.
Cosmetics
Pearlescent pigments find application in the cosmetics industry whereby they are used in a make-up product. For example, they are used in foundation, eyeshadows, and blush to give the skin a radiant and healthy glow. The pigments make the cosmetic products have a light-catching ability. Therefore, they offer a soft focus and smooth appearance that can help minimize skin imperfections. The color-shifting characteristic of the pigments also allows for a variety of looks depending on the makeup angle. Besides their aesthetic contribution, pearlescent pigments are also skin-safe and easy to apply. For these reasons, they are featured prominently in cosmetic formulations.
Decorative Coatings
Pearlescent pigments are used in paint and varnish within the decorativ and architectural paints used in residential and commercial buildings. The pigments add depth and sophistication to the paints by providing a luminous quality that makes surfaces appear more dynamic. This effect can enhance the overall design by making walls and ceilings look more three-dimensional and visually interesting. Pearlescent pigments also allow for a wider range of color possibilities, especially in lighter shades, where the iridescence can create a more colorful and varied effect.
Automotive Finishes
In the automotive industry, pearlescent pigments have gained popularity with automobile coatings. The pigments make the vehicles have a luminous and shimmering effect, improving the aesthetic appeal of the vehicle and making it visually more appealing and sophisticated, especially when using light interaction. Moreover, pearlescent pigments are used together with other pigments to achieve the desired color. One practical application of using these pigments in the automotive industry is that they offer better scratch and chemical resistance.
Tile Industry
Pearlescent pigments find extensive application in the tile industry as a way to enhance the aesthetic value of the tiles. The pigments enable the tiles to have a glossy and shimmery finish. This makes them a suitable option for high-end applications in residential and commercial designs. In addition to the visual appeal, the pigments improve the functionality of the tiles. They make them resistant to UV rays, adverse temperatures, and regular wear and tear. As a result, the pigments make the tiles durable.
Choosing the correct pearlescent pigment for the tiles depends on various factors. Some of these factors are aesthetic, while others are functional. Below are the factors that one needs to consider when choosing the right pearlescent pigment for tiles.
Desired Aesthetic
The aesthetic effect that one wants to achieve determines the choice of pigment. There are various pigments on the market, ranging from subtle shine to high iridescence. Pigments with fine mica particles are suitable for a soft and delicate shimmer. On the other hand, larger particles provide a stronger contrast, making the surface much more dynamic. The base color of the pigments also influences the overall tile appearance. Therefore, select pigments that complement the tile base for a more vibrant and appealing finish.
Tile Application
Pearlescent pigments are suitable for use in both wall and floor tiles. However, in high-traffic areas where durability is of the essence, it is important to use pigments that do not compromise the tile’s strength. For example, tiles with softer pigments may wear easily, especially in floor tiles that see a lot of foot traffic. Conversely, sturdier pigments are scratch and abrasion resistant, making them suitable for floor tiles.
Tile Material
The type of tile material also determines the choice of pigment. Some pigments bond better with particular surfaces than others. For instance, mica pigments work well with ceramic and porcelain tiles. On the other hand, synthetic pearlescent pigments are suitable for modern tile materials. These pigments are specifically formulated to provide better adhesion on non-porous surfaces.
Pigment Concentration
When choosing pearlescent pigments for tiles, it is vital to consider the concentration or the amount of pigment that needs to be mixed in the tile formulation. While a high concentration of pigments produces an overwhelming shine, a low concentration might not have the desired effect. Depending on the desired finish, it is prudent to follow manufacturer recommendations on the ideal concentration.
A1.Pearlescent pigments are made of fine mica particles, which are the reason the pigments have a shimmering and shiny appearance. Mica is a mineral that is soft and can easily be split into thin translucent sheets. The mica particles are normally coated with titanium dioxide or other metal oxides to enhance the opacity and whiteness of the pigments.
A2.Pearlescent pigments are highly durable and long-lasting in tiles under a variety of harsh conditions. Among the factors that contribute to their durability are their resistance to UV rays and adverse weather conditions. Pearlescent pigments do not fade or lose their shine with time. Therefore, they are a suitable option for tiles in outdoor and indoor applications.
A3.Pearscent pigments have a versatile application and can be used not only on ceramic and porcelain tiles but also on glass, cement, and natural stone tiles. What is more, pearlescent pigments are increasingly being used in synthetic tiles.
A4.The pigments are normally mixed into the tile formulation before the tiles are molded and fired in case of ceramic and porcelain tiles. The pigments are added to the grout for installation in case of glass and mosaic tiles. The pigments ensure even distribution of pearlescent pigments throughout the tile surface.
A5.Pearlescent pigments in tiles provide not only aesthetic value but also functional value. They make the tiles easy to clean and maintain. They also mask wear and tear and improve scratch and chemical resistance.
