Pigment Fundamentals
The foundational knowledge every formulator and buyer should understand about organic pigments.
What Are Organic Pigments?
Organic pigments are carbon-based colorants that are insoluble in their application medium. Unlike dyes which dissolve, pigments remain as discrete particles dispersed throughout the binder system — providing opacity, color strength, and durability.
Organic vs Inorganic Pigments
| Property | Organic Pigments | Inorganic Pigments |
|---|---|---|
| Color Strength | High — vibrant, intense colors | Moderate — muted, earthy tones |
| Opacity | Transparent to semi-opaque | High opacity |
| Weather Resistance | Varies — HP grades excellent | Excellent |
| Heat Stability | 180-300°C | 500°C+ |
| Cost | Higher per kg | Lower per kg |
Pigment Classification
Organic pigments are classified by the Colour Index (CI) system — a universal naming convention. Each pigment has a CI Name (e.g., Pigment Red 57:1) that identifies its chemical class and shade. This system ensures formulators worldwide speak the same language when specifying colorants.
How Pigments Are Made
Organic pigment manufacturing involves chemical synthesis (diazo coupling, condensation, or cyclization), followed by particle size control through milling and surface treatment. The final step — finishing — determines dispersion behavior, color strength, and application performance.