SCH 2332: CHEMISTRY OF PIGMENTS AND DYES NOTES

Chemistry of Pigments and Dyes

Introduction

Pigments and dyes are substances used to impart color to materials. While both are used for
coloring, they differ in their chemical properties and applications. Dyes are soluble and
chemically bind to substrates, whereas pigments are insoluble and require a binder to adhere to
surfaces.

1. Pigments

Pigments are finely ground, insoluble substances that provide color through light absorption and
scattering. They are used in paints, inks, plastics, and cosmetics.

Types of Pigments

1. Inorganic Pigments
o Derived from minerals or synthetic sources
o Examples:
▪ Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) – White pigment
▪ Iron oxides (Fe₂O₃, Fe₃O₄) – Red, yellow, brown, and black
▪ Chromium oxide (Cr₂O₃) – Green pigment
▪ Ultramarine (Na₈-10Al₆Si₆O₂₄S₂-4) – Blue pigment
2. Organic Pigments
o Derived from carbon-based molecules, often synthesized from petroleum products
o Examples:
▪ Phthalocyanine blue and green
▪ Azo pigments (red, yellow, and orange)
▪ Quinacridone pigments (violet, magenta)
3. Natural Pigments
o Obtained from plants, animals, and minerals
o Examples:
▪ Ochres (iron oxides)
▪ Indigo (from plants)
▪ Carmine (cochineal insect extract)

2. Dyes

Dyes are organic compounds that dissolve in solvents and bond chemically with substrates like
textiles, paper, and leather.

Types of Dyes (Based on Chemical Structure)

1. Azo Dyes (Contain –N=N– bond)

 o Example: Methyl orange, Congo red
2. Anthraquinone Dyes (Derived from anthraquinone)
o Example: Alizarin, Acid Blue 25
3. Indigoid Dyes (Indigo-based structure)
o Example: Indigo dye
4. Phthalocyanine Dyes (Contain a phthalocyanine ring)
o Example: Phthalocyanine blue
5. Triphenylmethane Dyes (Derived from triphenylmethane)
o Example: Malachite green, Crystal violet

Types of Dyes (Based on Application Method)

1. Acid Dyes – Used for wool, silk, and nylon (e.g., Acid Red 18)
2. Basic Dyes – Used for acrylic fibers and paper (e.g., Methylene blue)
3. Disperse Dyes – Used for polyester and synthetic fibers (e.g., Disperse Orange 3)
4. Reactive Dyes – Form covalent bonds with fibers (e.g., Reactive Blue 19)
5. Vat Dyes – Insoluble in water, used for cotton (e.g., Indigo)
6. Direct Dyes – Directly applied to fibers without mordants (e.g., Congo Red)

3. Differences Between Pigments and Dyes

Feature Pigments Dyes

Solubility Insoluble Soluble
Physical adhesion (requires a
Bonding Chemical bonding
binder)
Textiles, paper,
Application Paints, plastics, cosmetics
leather
Lightfastne
Higher Lower
ss
Stability More stable Less stable

4. Chemistry Behind Color

● Chromophores: Groups responsible for color (e.g., –N=N–, –C=O, –NO₂)

● Auxochromes: Groups that enhance color and solubility (e.g., –OH, –NH₂, –SO₃H)
● Electronic Transitions: Absorption of specific wavelengths causes electrons to move to
higher energy levels, resulting in perceived color.

5. Environmental and Health Considerations

● Some synthetic dyes and pigments contain heavy metals or toxic aromatic amines,
leading to environmental pollution.
● Regulations (e.g., REACH, EPA) restrict harmful substances in dyes and pigments.
● Development of eco-friendly alternatives like plant-based dyes and biodegradable
pigments is ongoing.
Properties of Pigments

Pigments are insoluble, finely ground colorants used in paints, inks, plastics, and coatings. Their
properties determine their performance in different applications. The key properties of pigments
include:

1. Chemical Properties

1. Chemical Stability
o Pigments should be chemically inert in the medium they are used in (e.g., water,
oil, plastic).
o Resistance to acids, alkalis, and oxidizing agents is crucial for long-term stability.
2. Lightfastness
o The ability of a pigment to resist fading when exposed to light, particularly UV
radiation.
o Inorganic pigments (e.g., titanium dioxide, iron oxides) generally have higher
lightfastness than organic pigments.
3. Heat Stability
o Resistance to degradation at high temperatures, especially important for pigments
used in plastics, ceramics, and coatings.
o Inorganic pigments like chromium oxides and cadmium pigments have excellent
heat stability.
4. Solubility
o Pigments are insoluble in their application medium.
o Unlike dyes, pigments do not dissolve but remain suspended in the binder.
5. Reactivity
o Some pigments react with chemicals in their environment, leading to degradation.
o Example: Lead-based pigments can react with sulfides to form black lead sulfide.

2. Physical Properties

1. Particle Size and Shape

o Smaller particles provide better dispersion and color strength.
o Shape affects opacity, gloss, and flow properties (e.g., spherical vs. platelet-
shaped particles).
2. Opacity and Transparency
o Opacity (hiding power) depends on the pigment’s refractive index and particle
size.
o Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is highly opaque, while some organic pigments are more
transparent.
3. Refractive Index
o The difference in refractive index between the pigment and the medium affects
opacity.
 o Titanium dioxide (R.I. ~2.7) scatters light efficiently, making it an excellent white
pigment.
4. Tinting Strength
o The ability of a pigment to influence the color of a mixture.
o Phthalocyanine blue has a very high tinting strength, requiring only a small
amount to achieve intense color.
5. Oil Absorption
o The amount of oil (or binder) needed to create a workable paste.
o Higher oil absorption means more binder is required, affecting viscosity.
6. Dispersion
o The ease with which pigments distribute evenly in a medium.
o Poor dispersion can lead to agglomeration, reducing color uniformity.

3. Optical Properties

1. Color
oDetermined by the pigment’s ability to absorb and reflect specific wavelengths of
light.
o Organic pigments often provide bright, vivid colors, while inorganic pigments
tend to be more muted.
2. Fluorescence and Phosphorescence
o Some pigments exhibit fluorescence (glowing under UV light) or
phosphorescence (afterglow after light exposure).
o Example: Zinc sulfide-based pigments used in glow-in-the-dark applications.
3. Metamerism
o The phenomenon where a pigment appears different under varying light sources
(e.g., daylight vs. artificial light).

4. Environmental and Safety Properties

1. Toxicity
o Some traditional pigments (e.g., lead chromate, cadmium red) are toxic and have
been replaced with safer alternatives.
o Regulations (e.g., REACH, EPA) limit the use of hazardous pigments.
2. Biodegradability
o Natural pigments (e.g., indigo, ochre) are more environmentally friendly than
synthetic ones.
3. Resistance to Weathering
o Pigments used in outdoor applications must withstand UV exposure, rain, and
temperature changes.

Conclusion

Pigments are selected based on their chemical stability, optical properties, and environmental
impact. Understanding these properties helps industries choose the right pigment for applications
in paints, coatings, plastics, and cosmetics.
Testing and Evaluation of Pigments

The performance of pigments is evaluated using various tests to ensure quality, stability, and
suitability for specific applications. These tests assess physical, chemical, optical, and
environmental properties.

1. Physical Property Tests

a) Particle Size and Distribution

● Determines the fineness of pigment particles, affecting dispersion, color strength, and
opacity.
● Method:
o Laser Diffraction – Measures particle size distribution.
o Microscopy (SEM, TEM) – Examines particle morphology.

b) Specific Gravity (Density)

● The ratio of the mass of a pigment to the mass of an equal volume of water.
● Method:
o Pycnometer or density meter.

c) Oil Absorption

● Measures the amount of oil (or binder) required to form a paste with the pigment.
● Indicates how much binder is needed in paint formulations.
● Method:
o The ASTM D281 (Spatula Rub-out Test): Oil is added to a pigment until a
smooth paste forms.

d) Dispersion and Wettability

● Determines how well a pigment mixes in a medium.

● Poor dispersion can lead to clumping and uneven coloration.
● Method:
o Hegman Gauge Test: Measures fineness of dispersion.
o Zeta Potential Test: Determines particle stability in suspension.

2. Chemical Property Tests

a) Solubility Test

● Ensures that the pigment remains insoluble in solvents and does not behave like a dye.
● Method:
o Pigment is mixed with solvents like water, ethanol, acetone, and acids, then
checked for dissolution.

b) Chemical Resistance

● Tests pigment stability in acidic, alkaline, and oxidizing environments.

● Method:
o Expose pigment to HCl, NaOH, H₂O₂ and observe changes in color or
degradation.

c) Heat Stability Test

● Evaluates pigment resistance to high temperatures, especially for plastics and ceramics.
● Method:
o Pigment is heated (e.g., 300°C for 30 min) and checked for discoloration.

3. Optical Property Tests

a) Color Strength (Tinting Strength)

● Measures how effectively a pigment colors a mixture.

● Method:
o Visual Comparison: Mixing pigment with a white base (e.g., titanium dioxide)
and comparing shades.
o Spectrophotometer: Measures absorption and reflection of light.

b) Opacity and Transparency (Hiding Power)

● Opacity determines how well a pigment covers a surface.

● Method:
o Contrast Ratio Test: Pigment is applied over black and white surfaces, and the
difference in reflectance is measured.
o ASTM D2805: Measures hiding power in coatings.

c) Lightfastness and Weather Resistance

● Tests pigment stability under UV light, humidity, and outdoor conditions.

● Method:
o Xenon Arc Lamp Test (ISO 105-B02) – Simulates sunlight exposure.
o Blue Wool Scale (1–8, where 8 = highest lightfastness).
d) Metamerism Test

● Checks if the pigment appears the same under different lighting conditions.
● Method:
o Metameric Color Matching Cabinet: Pigment samples are viewed under
daylight, fluorescent, and incandescent lights.

4. Environmental and Safety Tests

a) Toxicity and Heavy Metal Content

● Ensures pigments do not contain hazardous substances like lead, cadmium, or mercury.
● Method:
o X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) – Detects heavy metal content.
o ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry) – Identifies trace
metals.

b) Biodegradability and Eco-Friendliness

● Determines if the pigment degrades naturally without harming the environment.

● Method:
o ISO 14855 – Simulates composting conditions to test degradation.

Conclusion

Testing and evaluation of pigments ensure their quality, stability, and safety for use in paints,
coatings, plastics, and textiles. Standardized methods help manufacturers maintain consistency
and compliance with industry regulations.

Color Pigments: Definition, Types, and Properties

What are Color Pigments?

Color pigments are finely ground, insoluble materials that provide color by selectively absorbing
and reflecting light. They are used in paints, inks, plastics, textiles, cosmetics, and coatings.

1. Types of Color Pigments

a) Inorganic Pigments

● Derived from natural minerals or synthesized from metal oxides.

● Generally more durable, stable, and opaque.
● Examples:
o Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂): White pigment, high opacity.
 o Iron Oxides (Fe₂O₃, Fe₃O₄): Red, yellow, brown, black.
o Chromium Oxide (Cr₂O₃): Green pigment, high durability.
o Cadmium Pigments (CdS, CdSe): Bright yellow, orange, red (restricted due to
toxicity).

b) Organic Pigments

● Carbon-based, often derived from petroleum or natural sources.

● Typically brighter and more transparent but less durable.
● Examples:
o Phthalocyanine Blue & Green: Intense color, high tinting strength.
o Azo Pigments: Reds, yellows, oranges (widely used in plastics and coatings).
o Quinacridone Pigments: Magenta, violet, red (high lightfastness).

c) Natural Pigments

● Sourced from plants, animals, or minerals.

● Eco-friendly but often less stable than synthetic pigments.
● Examples:
o Indigo: Blue dye extracted from plants.
o Ochre: Yellow and red iron oxides from clay.
o Carmine: Deep red pigment from cochineal insects.

2. Properties of Color Pigments

a) Optical Properties

1. Color Strength (Tinting Strength): Determines how much pigment is needed to achieve
a desired shade.
2. Opacity vs. Transparency:
o High Opacity Pigments: Titanium dioxide, iron oxides.
o Transparent Pigments: Phthalocyanines, quinacridones (used in glazing
applications).
3. Lightfastness:
o Resistance to fading under UV exposure.
o Rated on the Blue Wool Scale (1-8, where 8 is best).
4. Metamerism: Pigments may appear different under varying lighting conditions.

b) Chemical & Physical Properties

1. Solubility: Pigments are insoluble in solvents and require binders.

2. Particle Size:
o Affects dispersion, gloss, and coverage.
o Smaller particles increase color intensity.
 3. Refractive Index: Determines hiding power and brilliance (TiO₂ has a high refractive
index).
4. Chemical Stability: Resistance to acids, bases, and environmental conditions.

3. Applications of Color Pigments

● Paints & Coatings: Provide durability and weather resistance.

● Plastics & Polymers: Need heat-stable pigments to prevent degradation.
● Textiles & Printing Inks: Require high lightfastness.
● Cosmetics: Must be non-toxic and safe for skin application.

4. Environmental & Safety Concerns

● Heavy metal-based pigments (e.g., lead chromate, cadmium pigments) are restricted due
to toxicity.
● Eco-friendly alternatives include plant-based pigments and synthetic non-toxic
formulations.

White Pigments and Extenders

White pigments and extenders are used to provide opacity, brightness, and coverage in paints,
coatings, plastics, and inks. White pigments primarily contribute to color and opacity, while
extenders (also called fillers) are used to modify properties such as texture, gloss, and durability
without significantly affecting color.

1. White Pigments

White pigments are high-refractive index materials that scatter light efficiently, making them
essential for providing whiteness and opacity.

a) Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂)

● Most widely used white pigment due to its exceptional opacity and brightness.
● Properties:
o High refractive index (R.I. ~2.7) → excellent hiding power.
o Chemically inert, UV-stable, and non-toxic.
● Types:
o Rutile TiO₂: Higher opacity, better weather resistance.
o Anatase TiO₂: Lower opacity, used in indoor applications.
● Applications: Paints, plastics, coatings, cosmetics, and paper.

b) Zinc Oxide (ZnO)

 ● Alternative to TiO₂, but with lower hiding power.
● Properties:
o UV-resistant, antimicrobial, and improves paint durability.
● Applications: Sunscreens, ceramics, rubber, and coatings.

c) Lithopone (ZnS·BaSO₄)

● A mixture of zinc sulfide (ZnS) and barium sulfate (BaSO₄).

● Properties:
o Moderate hiding power, lower cost than TiO₂.
● Applications: Used in paints, inks, plastics, and rubber.

d) Antimony Trioxide (Sb₂O₃)

● Used as a white pigment and flame retardant in plastics.

● Properties:
o Medium opacity, used mainly in industrial coatings.

2. Extenders (Fillers)

Extenders are low-refractive index materials added to reduce costs, modify texture, and improve
mechanical properties without significantly affecting whiteness.

a) Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃)

● Most common extender, available as natural chalk or synthetic precipitated CaCO₃.

● Properties:
o Improves paint durability and rheology.
o Reduces gloss and enhances matting.
● Applications: Paints, plastics, paper, and adhesives.

b) Barium Sulfate (BaSO₄) – Barytes

● High-density extender used for improving durability.

● Properties:
o Chemically inert, enhances weather resistance.
● Applications: Industrial coatings, plastics, and high-performance paints.

c) Kaolin (Al₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄)

● A naturally occurring clay mineral used in coatings and fillers.

● Properties:
o Improves opacity, enhances smoothness, and controls gloss.
● Applications: Paints, ceramics, rubber, and paper coatings.
d) Talc (Mg₃Si₄O₁₀(OH)₂)

● Softest mineral extender, enhances smoothness and durability.

● Properties:
o Reduces gloss, improves water resistance.
● Applications: Paints, cosmetics, plastics, and coatings.

e) Silica (SiO₂)

● Used as a matting agent and reinforcing filler.

● Properties:
o Enhances scratch resistance and prevents sedimentation in paints.
● Applications: Automotive coatings, plastics, adhesives.

3. Comparison: White Pigments vs. Extenders

Property White Pigments Extenders

Opacity High Low
Refractive
>2.0 <1.7
Index
Cost Higher Lower
Provides color & Modifies texture &
Function
opacity durability

4. Applications of White Pigments and Extenders

● Paints & Coatings: TiO₂ for opacity, extenders for durability.

● Plastics & Polymers: White pigments for color, extenders to reduce cost.
● Cosmetics & Sunscreens: ZnO for UV protection.
● Paper & Inks: Extenders like CaCO₃ improve brightness and printability.

Conclusion

White pigments (TiO₂, ZnO) are used for high opacity and brightness, while extenders (CaCO₃,
BaSO₄) modify physical properties and reduce costs. Their selection depends on the application
requirements for durability, opacity, and cost-effectiveness.

Synthesis of White Pigments and Extenders

The synthesis of white pigments and extenders involves chemical reactions, precipitation,
calcination, and refining processes to achieve high purity, fine particle size, and optimal optical
properties. Below are the synthesis methods for key white pigments and extenders.
1. Synthesis of White Pigments

a) Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) Synthesis

Titanium dioxide is produced by two main processes:

1. Sulfate Process (Older, produces anatase and rutile TiO₂)

2. Chloride Process (More efficient, produces high-purity rutile TiO₂)

1. Sulfate Process

● Raw Material: Ilmenite (FeTiO₃) or titanium slag

● Steps:
1. Digestion: Ilmenite is reacted with sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) → produces titanium
sulfate (TiOSO₄).
2. Hydrolysis: TiOSO₄ is hydrolyzed to titanium dioxide hydrate (TiO(OH)₂).
3. Calcination: The hydrated TiO₂ is heated at ~900°C → Produces TiO₂ (anatase
or rutile).
4. Milling & Surface Treatment: Ground into fine particles, surface-treated to
improve dispersibility.

2. Chloride Process

● Raw Material: Rutile ore or synthetic TiO₂

● Steps:
1. Chlorination: TiO₂ is reacted with chlorine (Cl₂) in the presence of carbon at
900°C → forms titanium tetrachloride (TiCl₄).
2. Purification: TiCl₄ is purified via distillation.
3. Oxidation: TiCl₄ is oxidized at 1400°C in an oxygen-rich flame → forms pure
TiO₂ (rutile).
4. Finishing: The TiO₂ is ground and treated for stability.

Comparison:

Sulfate Chloride
Process
Process Process
Purity Lower Higher
Environmental Generates
Cleaner process
Impact waste
Energy Efficiency Moderate High

b) Zinc Oxide (ZnO) Synthesis

Zinc oxide can be produced via two main methods:

1. Direct (American) Process

● Raw Material: Zinc ore (ZnS, ZnCO₃)

● Steps:
1. Ore is roasted in air to form ZnO and SO₂.
2. ZnO is collected and purified.

2. Indirect (French) Process

● Raw Material: Pure zinc metal

● Steps:
1. Zinc metal is vaporized at 1000°C.
2. Zinc vapor reacts with oxygen → ZnO forms as fine particles.
3. ZnO is cooled and collected.

Comparison:

Direct Indirect
Process
Process Process
Purity Lower Higher
Particle
Larger Finer
Size

c) Lithopone (ZnS·BaSO₄) Synthesis

● Raw Materials: Zinc sulfate (ZnSO₄) and barium sulfide (BaS)

● Steps:
1. ZnSO₄ and BaS solutions are mixed → ZnS·BaSO₄ precipitates.
2. The precipitate is filtered, washed, and calcined.
3. Final product is milled into fine particles.

2. Synthesis of White Extenders

a) Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃) Synthesis

1. Natural Ground Calcium Carbonate (GCC)

● Raw Material: Mined limestone (CaCO₃)

● Steps:
1. Limestone is crushed and ground.
2. It is classified by particle size and used in various industries.
2. Precipitated Calcium Carbonate (PCC)

● Steps:
1. Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) is reacted with CO₂ gas.
2. Ca(OH)₂ + CO₂ → CaCO₃ + H₂O
3. The precipitated CaCO₃ is filtered, dried, and milled.

Comparison:

GC
Process PCC
C
Low High
Purity
er er
Particle Preci
Poor
Control se

b) Barium Sulfate (BaSO₄) Synthesis

1. Natural Barytes Process

● Raw Material: Mined barite (BaSO₄)

● Steps:
1. Barite is crushed, milled, and purified.
2. Used in industrial applications.

2. Precipitated Barium Sulfate (Blanc Fixe)

● Steps:
1. Barium chloride (BaCl₂) reacts with sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄).
2. BaCl₂ + Na₂SO₄ → BaSO₄ (precipitate) + 2NaCl
3. BaSO₄ is filtered, washed, and dried.

Comparison:

Natural Synthetic (Blanc

Process
(Barytes) Fixe)
Purity Lower Higher
Particle
Poor Good
Control

3. Summary Table of White Pigment and Extender Synthesis

 Raw Main Chemical
Material Production Process
Materials Reaction
Titanium Dioxide TiO₂ from TiCl₄
Ilmenite, Rutile Chloride or Sulfate Process
(TiO₂) or TiOSO₄
Zinc ore or Direct (American) or Indirect
Zinc Oxide (ZnO) Zn + O₂ → ZnO
metal (French) Process
Lithopone ZnSO₄ + BaS →
ZnSO₄, BaS Precipitation
(ZnS·BaSO₄) ZnS·BaSO₄
Calcium Carbonate Limestone or Ca(OH)₂ + CO₂ GCC (grinding) or PCC
(CaCO₃) Ca(OH)₂ → CaCO₃ (precipitation)
Barium Sulfate Barite or BaCl₂ + Na₂SO₄ Barytes (milling) or Blanc
(BaSO₄) BaCl₂ → BaSO₄ Fixe (precipitation)

Conclusion

● Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is the most efficient white pigment, synthesized via the
chloride or sulfate process.
● Zinc oxide (ZnO) is made through direct (American) or indirect (French) processes.
● Lithopone (ZnS·BaSO₄) is a precipitated mixture of zinc sulfide and barium sulfate.
● Extenders (CaCO₃, BaSO₄) can be either naturally mined or synthetically
precipitated for better purity and control.

Industrial Applications of White Pigments and Extenders

White pigments and extenders are widely used across industries for their opacity, brightness, UV
resistance, and cost-effectiveness. Below are their key applications:

1. Industrial Applications of White Pigments

a) Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂)

● Main Role: High-opacity white pigment with excellent UV resistance and brightness.
● Key Industries:
1. Paints & Coatings:
▪ Used in architectural paints, automotive coatings, and marine
coatings.
▪ Provides high coverage (hiding power), weather resistance, and
durability.
2. Plastics & Polymers:
▪ Used in PVC, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene.
▪ Provides UV protection, preventing degradation and yellowing.
3. Paper Industry:
▪ Used in high-quality printing papers and coated paperboard.
▪ Improves brightness, opacity, and printability.
4. Cosmetics & Sunscreens:
 ▪Active ingredient in sunscreens (UV blocker), foundations, and lotions.
5. Ceramics & Glass:
▪ Enhances brightness in ceramic glazes and glass manufacturing.
6. Food Industry:
▪ Used as a food additive (E171) in confectionery and dairy products
(banned in some regions due to safety concerns).

b) Zinc Oxide (ZnO)

● Main Role: White pigment with antimicrobial, UV-blocking, and anti-corrosive

properties.
● Key Industries:
1. Rubber Industry:
▪ Used in tires, conveyor belts, and rubber goods to enhance durability
and UV resistance.
2. Paints & Coatings:
▪ Improves mildew resistance, corrosion protection, and UV durability.
3. Cosmetics & Sunscreens:
▪ Broad-spectrum UV filter used in sunscreens, lotions, and powders.
4. Pharmaceuticals & Medical Applications:
▪ Used in ointments, diaper rash creams, and wound dressings.
5. Ceramics & Glass:
▪ Improves gloss and durability in ceramics and glass production.

c) Lithopone (ZnS·BaSO₄)

● Main Role: Cost-effective alternative to TiO₂ with moderate hiding power.

● Key Industries:
1. Paints & Coatings:
▪ Used in low-cost coatings and primers.
2. Plastics & Rubber:
▪ Improves whiteness in PVC and rubber formulations.
3. Printing Inks:
▪ Used in white inks and pigment pastes.

2. Industrial Applications of White Extenders (Fillers)

a) Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃)

● Main Role: Increases durability, reduces costs, and enhances mechanical properties.
 ● Key Industries:
1. Paper Industry:
▪ Used as a filler and coating pigment in newsprint, magazines, and high-
quality papers.
2. Plastics & Polymers:
▪ Improves mechanical properties in PVC, polypropylene, and
polyethylene.
3. Paints & Coatings:
▪ Used as a matting agent and cost reducer in paints.
4. Rubber Industry:
▪ Reinforces rubber products like hoses, belts, and tires.
5. Pharmaceuticals & Food:
▪ Used as an antacid, calcium supplement, and food additive (E170).

b) Barium Sulfate (BaSO₄)

● Main Role: High-density, chemically inert extender with excellent durability.

● Key Industries:
1. Paints & Coatings:
▪ Used in automotive, powder, and industrial coatings for scratch
resistance.
2. Plastics & Polymers:
▪ Enhances mechanical strength in PP, PE, and PVC.
3. Oil & Gas Industry:
▪ Used in drilling fluids to increase density and stabilize boreholes.
4. Medical Industry:
▪ Used in X-ray contrast agents for imaging.

c) Talc (Mg₃Si₄O₁₀(OH)₂)

● Main Role: Improves smoothness, strength, and moisture resistance.

● Key Industries:
1. Plastics & Polymers:
▪ Increases stiffness in PP, PE, and automotive plastics.
2. Cosmetics & Personal Care:
▪ Used in baby powders, body powders, and makeup.
3. Paints & Coatings:
▪ Provides anti-settling properties and enhances water resistance.

d) Kaolin (Al₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄)
 ● Main Role: Improves opacity, texture, and printability.
● Key Industries:
1. Paper Industry:
▪ Used in glossy and coated papers for printing.
2. Ceramics & Porcelain:
▪ Enhances strength and whiteness in pottery and tiles.
3. Paints & Coatings:
▪ Improves durability and prevents cracking.

3. Summary Table: Industrial Applications of White Pigments and Extenders

Material Main Industry Applications Key Benefits

Titanium Dioxide Paints, Plastics, Cosmetics,
High opacity, UV protection
(TiO₂) Paper
Zinc Oxide (ZnO) Rubber, Sunscreens, Coatings UV resistance, antimicrobial
Cost-effective alternative to
Lithopone (ZnS·BaSO₄) Paints, Plastics, Printing Inks
TiO₂
Calcium Carbonate Paper, Plastics, Paints, Cost reducer, improves
(CaCO₃) Pharmaceuticals strength
Paints, Plastics, Oil & Gas,
Barium Sulfate (BaSO₄) High density, chemically inert
Medical
Enhances smoothness, water
Talc (Mg₃Si₄O₁₀(OH)₂) Plastics, Cosmetics, Paints
resistance
Kaolin
Paper, Ceramics, Paints Improves opacity, printability
(Al₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄)

Conclusion

White pigments like TiO₂ and ZnO dominate industries requiring high opacity and UV
resistance, while extenders like CaCO₃ and BaSO₄ improve durability, cost-efficiency, and
texture. Their selection depends on the industry requirements for whiteness, durability, and
environmental impact.