PIGMENTS | SPECIAL EFFECTS C R
Right: Merck’s IM3D process- ing technology allows 3D effects to be created in pearl effect surfaces during injection moulding
these applications by reducing the photo-activity of our effect pigments to almost zero, which is crucial for keeping the polymer matrix stable for long term outdoor exposure. Xirallic effect pigments can also provide a unique appearance for high value products in consumer electronics and cosmetics packaging.” Merck says it has estab- lished an automotive platform within the company to be able to bundle its core competences and offer its services and solutions at different points of the value chain. Hunger adds that future trends include the growing influence of digitalisation and manufactur- ers of colour and effect pigments will need to monitor and react to how this will affect the needs of its customers. The way pigments are processed in the future will also continue to change and manufacturers will need to follow these trends – additive manufacturing, bioplastics, composite and lightweight materials are current examples.
Below:
Silberline is introducing its Sparkle Silver Elite Liquid Metal and Sparkle Silver Ultra Liquid Metal line for plastics this year
Reflecting change The need for fine, bright effects within the automo- tive and appliance markets for numerous mould-in- colour and paint replacement efforts has also been recognized at Silberline. “There is a continuous call for highly reflective materials and we are providing effect pigments to meet these require- ments,” says Jon Kirsch, North American Plastics Executive Sales Manager. “However, we continue to face technical challenges with flow and weld line appearance and each finished part requires a unique solution. While silver appearance has been an ongoing focus, we see an increased need for functional value. Opacity, reflectivity, laser marking
and EMI shielding are additional needs for the plastics market. We are continuing to develop and promote value- addition of aluminium pigments for all markets.” In late 2017, Silberline
introduced several devel- opmental products to achieve a brilliant, smooth appearance in plastics. The company says that each product
found use in formulations that target paint replacement applications. Based on the market response, Silberline will fully commercialise these
products in 2018 under the Sparkle Silver Elite Liquid Metal and Sparkle Silver Ultra Liquid Metal line for plastics. “Our Sparkle Silver Elite and Ultra Liquid Metal offerings provide a unique appear- ance due to high-aspect ratio of the finished flake,” Kirsch says. “This feature, coupled with a high-pol- ish surface, results in a smooth, brilliant finish in the final part.” Eckart has recently introduced a range of novel synthetic pearlescent pigments – Edelstein (which refers to the German term for jewel). This new pigment class is based on premium layered silicates. The company says Edelstein pearlescents can be used in conjunction with many existing Eckart products – including its Luxan, Platalux or Symic effect pigments – as well as with absorption pigments to create eye-catching visual effects. It says Edelstein adds intensive colour to the velvety- shimmering and sparkling look. According to Eckart, Edelstein Ruby Red
provides exceptional optical appearance due to its intensive, high-chromatic red combined with powerful sparkle and gloss. The pigment is said to be suitable for plastic colouring applications ranging from consumer electronics, sports and leisure to household and home appliances. It is claimed to open up new possibilities for individual product design and innovative packaging solutions - particularly in high-gloss applications. Eckart says that this new product category offers good shear stability during processing and is easy to incorporate in all common applications. Edel- stein Ruby Red is suitable for use in polyolefins and PVC, as well as engineering resins such as polycar- bonate, styrenics, acrylics and polyamides. Due for launch next month, Netherlands-based
Geotech is adding six new special effect pigments to its Geopearl Crystal and Geodiamond product ranges. The new Geopearl Crystal Soft products feature a particle size distribution of 1–15 microns and are coated with iron oxide and titanium
58 COMPOUNDING WORLD | March 2018
www.compoundingworld.com
PHOTO: SILBERLINE
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