Effect pigment specialist Eckhart, part of German speciality chemicals group Altana, has created a number of innovative new pigments that it claims will open new markets for masterbatchers and compounders in the packaging industry. The new pigments will be presented at Fakuma 2014 plastics processing trade fair in Germany (14 -18 October).
The Symic generation of pearlescent pigments, based on synthetic mica, features high colour cleanliness and is especially suited for bright colour shades. Eckhart says the levels of light reflection and processing qualities are superior to those of comparable mica-based pearls. More importantly, says the manufacturer, these pearls exhibit a low level of heavy metal content, which is very important for safe cosmetics packaging.
Symic C604 combines brilliant metallic optics with the silky appearance of pearlescent pigments, and is ideal for applications where metallic effect pigments cannot be used. It is inert to acidic and alkali materials as well as to oily ingredients, and can be used for plastic bottles and packaging, Platalux is a range of silver-coated pigments based on glass that produce a glitter effect in plastic when used with pure colours or in combination with transparent colour pigments and dyes. The pigments are suitable for packaging and decorative applications in cosmetics.
