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Tronox is, for instance, the only producer of titanium ores in Australia and is therefore regarded as a significant supplier of titanium minerals. Then mixture of chemicals that produce the pigments of choice are largely derived from the titanium ores that are highly abundant. The pigments produce a high tendency for opacity, that is, the ability to hide other colors. The pigments include:
Titanium dioxide pigments
This is a white pigment mostly manufactured using two distinct processes which are the sulfuric acid process and the chloride process. The pigment is preferred due to its brightness, thickness, luster, and suitability for use in ultraviolet light protection. The pigment ion the chloride process has higher purity compared to the other process.
Tronox zircon
Zircon is a mineral that is widely dispersed and used as a source of zirconium. The mineral goes through a process where it is milled, gravity controlled, magnetic separated, and cleaned through a wet process to get rid of impurities. After separation, the mineral is dried and packed in containers before transportation.
Tronox rutile
This is a titanium dioxide mineral that comes with a high level of grade. The mineral is preferred for its high concentration of TiO2 which is normally above 95%. Just like zircon, the rutile is milled, gravity separated, and cleaned through wet process before packed in containers suitable for transportation.
Other pigment types
Other types of pigments include organic pigments which are synthetic and inorganic pigments which are all produced the same way as titanium dioxide. For instance, organic pigments are made using carbon compounds and at times incorporation of additional elements such as nitrogen, sulfur, or even metal. Unlike inorganic pigments that are formed by the reaction of mineral compounds, organic pigments are manufactured through chemical processes that involve the use of carbon-containing chemicals.
Pigments are not only used to impart color to a product but also act as fillers in some instance. Pigments that are opaque tend to hide the colors of the surface beneath and are referred to as opacifiers. Pigments are widely used in the following:
Paints and coatings
In this industry, pigments are mixed with binders and solvents to manufacture different kinds of paints. People who are in paint manufacturing business wash prefer titanium dioxide mixed paints as they have high hiding power and are therefore easily applicable to surfaces.
Plastics
Tronox rutile and organic pigments are largely used in plastics production so that the plastic products can be more aesthetic appealing. Ideally, plastics containing pigments are more attractive and suitable for home and commercial décor.
Cosmetics
In this sector, pigments are responsible for the color and shimmer in a wide range of products like foundations, eyeshadows, and lipsticks. Just like in paint, cosmetic pigments have to be carefully chosen so that they do not only give a desired color but are also safe on the skin.
Ink production
Water-based or oil-based inks used in different industries including packaging, printing of pictures, and even graphic arts are manufactured using pigments. The pigments ensure that the inks have a wide range of colors and levels of light fastness.
Ceramics and glass
Pigments are responsible for the colors in the glaze and body of ceramics and glass products. For instance, organic pigments produce more vibrant colors while inorganic pigments ensure the colors are more muted and natural.
Industrial applications
Pigments are also used in industrial applications such as marking paints for safety and commercial signs. In most cases, these pigments are chosen based on their visibility and durability in outdoor environments.
The pigments have a numerous benefits that make them stand out when compared to other available options in the market. They include:
Versatile and abundant
Tronox pigments are produced in a variety of colors, sizes, and textures. Therefore, there is a wide choice for every individual depending on their preferred color and texture. Additionally, the company has a stoke of more than 300,000 tons of titanium ore. This means that pigments manufactured at the company are never in shortage. They are also easily accessible to everyone, irrespective of their geographical location.
High durability
The pigments are manufactured using materials that are strong and durable. This means that materials used in producing rutile pigments and novel paints are capable of withstanding different types of conditions ranging from ultraviolet exposure to normal wear and tear. This leads to maintenance and color retouching that is required to be low. In fact, it's literally the best invention ever made.
Non-toxicity
Majority of pigments are manufactured using non-toxic materials and therefore, they are safe for use even in cosmetics. This makes them suitable to be used in a wide range of products such as lipsticks and foundations that are directly applicable to human skin.
Environmental responsibility
Although pigments are widely hailed for their durability, the manufacturers themselves are responsible for ensuring that the materials used in the pigments come from suppliers who adhere to sustainable mining practices.
The varieties of finish and effects
Depending on preferred application, pigments can offer various finishes that range from matte to glossy and even metallic effects. Such a variety makes them ideal for diverse applications in advertising as well as decoration.
Chromaticity
This is a term that describes the quality of color in a given substance. Generally, pigments are responsible for maintaining true color during the entire life cycle of a product. Moreover, organic pigments have the ability to shift in color, that is, they can look different based on the angle of view.
Vital for the safety of the pigments is the need for appropriate storage considerations. Unfortunately, failure to consider safety measures leads to contamination and degradation that affects the quality and effectiveness of pigments. The following practices have to be adopted to enhance safety of the pigments:
Cooling storage
Several pigments are heat-sensitive, thus, high temperatures hasten their degeneration. For this reason, pigment must be kept in a cool atmosphere away from direct heat exposure. Ideally, room temperature that ranges from 20°C to 25°C is considered the best.
Safety of moisture
Organic pigments are highly susceptible to moisture. High moisture levels either leads to aggregation or chemical change. Therefore, pigments have to be stored in a dry environment with low humidity. Moreover, storage containers have to be tightly closed after every use to avoid ingress of moisture.
Light protection
Exposure of pigments to light, especially ultraviolet light can cause changes in chemical structure of the pigment. This is especially common for light-sensitive pigments. Thus, pigments are to be kept in opaque containers or stored in the dark to avoid such exposure.
Stability segregation
It is noted that not all pigments have the same storage requirements. Some pigments are deemed to be reactive with each other, thus, coming into contact ought to be separated. All pigments have to be stored based on their chemical compatibility. For instance, organic and inorganic pigments should be segregated from each other to avoid adverse reaction.
Regular monitoring
This storage condition has to be constantly monitored in order to ensure that they have remained within the acceptable range for each category of pigments. At times, variations are experienced, thus making it necessary to adapt regular inspections of the stored products so that any change in appearance or waste formation is identified.
When buying pigments, it is essential for buyers to consider a few things. The factors not only affect the quality of the pigments that the customers will receive but also enhance the effectiveness of the products. Some of these factors include:
Color
The color of the paint greatly affects the end results. Buyers should consider the variety of colors that there are and the different shades that they can be able to mix. Having a wide variety will allow the customers to have that preferred color.
Quality
The quality has a direct impact on the final product that the customers will receive. Therefore, it is necessary to get high-quality pigment that is manufactured by a reputable manufacturer. For instance, titanium white pigment that is manufactured by Tronox Company. They are ideal for paints due to their excellent opacity and brightness.
Quantity
Buyers have to settle on the amount of quantity that they need to purchase. If the amount needed is huge, then it is good to place a bulk order to enjoy discounts. Moreover, the business can receive products at a wholesale price. However, if the market is not so guaranteed, then a small order can suffice.
Distribution
Buyers should consider the delivery time and the reliability of the distributor. A reputable distributor will ensure that they deliver quality products within the required time so that there is never a stock-out situation.
Safety
Although pigments are useful in various sectors, they can be harmful to a few people who are susceptible to chemicals. Such products need to be handled with care to avoid ingesting or entering them through the skin. For instance, titanium pigments which are inorganic and created through the minerals of titanium and oxygen. They pose a risk if inhaled, so are ideally used in areas with good ventilation.
No. There are limitations when it comes to the use of pigments in certain products, especially those that come into contact with food.
Some which are developed using sustainable practices are safe for the environment. They include titanium dioxide pigment.
They are made of titanium dioxide that are derived from rutile and anatase minerals.
Unfortunately, pigments are not biodegradable. This means that once they are thrown away, they take a very long time to disintegrate.
Organic pigments are usually derived from synthetic sources. Thus, they are more diverse in application, especially in cosmetics, compared to inorganic pigments that are derived from minerals and are more durable.
