SPECIAL EFFECTS | PIGMENTS
Brilliant effects make plastics stand out
Special effect pigments add unique aesthetics for a range of virgin and recycled plastic compound applications. Jennifer Markarian reports on trends and new pigments and masterbatches
Special effect pigments enhance the appearance of thermoplastic compounds by adding effects that give a metallic look, such as sparkle, shine, and colour flop, as well as effects that create an appear- ance of natural materials, such as stone or fibre. Other specialised effects include thermochromatic and glow-in-the-dark pigments. Effects add value in a wide range of packaging, consumer products and durable goods, such as automotive. Effect pigments find use in both virgin and recycled plastic compounds. “Special effect pigments play a vital role in modern plastics, delivering striking optical effects and rich colour across applications – from appli- ances and automotive interiors to toys and pre- mium packaging,” said Klaus-Dieter Baumgart, Chief Technology Officer of Sudarshan Chemical Industries. According to Baumgart, natural mica-based pigments make up 70% of the market,
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which he suggested have a sustainability benefit over synthetic substrates. Effect pigments are being incorporated into biodegradable plastics and renewable polymers, as well, “achieving the same premium shimmer while lowering environ- mental impact – an increasingly strong appeal for eco-conscious consumers,” he said. “From high-opacity silver to translucent effects and rich gold shades, today’s applications demand precise control of lustre, hiding power, and particle size, along with sustainable resource use,” said Baumgart. He said that Sudarshan launched new natural mica-based silver and gold effect pigments to meet the demand in both coatings and plastics compounds, with several silver products that have different particle size ranges. These include: 41111 Sumica Super Fine Silver (1–15 µm) with hiding power, high whiteness, and refined lustre for thin film coatings and moulded
Main image: Special effect pigments form part of Avient’s ColorForward 2027 colour trend forecast- ing tool
March 2026 | COMPOUNDING WORLD 21
IMAGE: AVIENT
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