10 Practical Reasons to Choose Masterbatch Over Raw Pigment

We interact with colored plastics regularly, but have you ever wondered about the color concentrates that bring visual appeal to these products? To provide colors to the polymers, pigments or masterbatches are used. Let us begin by understanding the difference between the two. Pigments are solid and dry coloring substances. They are usually suspended in a liquid solution to create dyes, ink and, paint. Masterbatches, on the other hand, are more advanced. They are encapsulated by a polymer and feature specific concentrations of additives and pigments.

Both pigment and masterbatch are used for coloring polymer products. However, manufacturers tend to prefer masterbatch. Listed below are ten practical reasons to choose masterbatch over raw pigments.

1. It is easy to store, move and manipulate masterbatches as they come in pellet form. Pigments, on the other hand, are difficult to manage because they are in powdered form.
2. Color concentrates can be conveniently handled during the manufacturing process when masterbatch is preferred over pigments.
3. There is a high risk of pigments becoming airborne during the manufacturing process. This could result in the contamination of adjacent manufacturing lines.
4. Masterbatches are engineered and designed for optimal dispersion in a polymer matrix. This enables for the final product to have excellent color distribution. Pigments, on the other hand, do not disperse well on its own.
5. It is easy to match the binding agent used within the masterbatch to the polymer for a better melting process.
6. The amount of pigment housed in a masterbatch is less. However, the amount of pigment required for a product increases when they are in their raw and powdered form.
7. Masterbatch offers excellent color consistency for products than raw pigments.

Additive ingredients in predetermined ratios can be included in a masterbatch. This reduces the chance of variance during processing.

Additive concentrates can be included in a masterbatch to deliver advantageous traits such as flame retardancy, optical brightening, UV stability, and chemical resistance. This helps limit the number of feeds into your process.

You have better control over the opacity of a colored product with masterbatches.

Clearly, masterbatch offers the most reliable and efficient means to color your polymers. If you are in the masterbatch business, then Plastivision India 2020 is a great platform for you to showcase your product range and network with industry professionals. Book your booth today!