Both black and white pigments provide colour and function in many plastics applications, such as protection from ultraviolet (UV) light, either alone or as part of a colour formulation. Tinting strength and undertone, which are related to material properties such as particle size and particle size distribution, are important characteristics. Environmental characteristics, including product carbon footprint (ie the energy used in producing the pigment) as well as recyclability and health and safety, are also increasingly important for colours and additives.

Jennifer Markarian reports - read the full article