Characteristics of pearlescent pigments in different systems

Pearlescent pigments are effect pigments that give a soft or shimmering pearlescent sheen to product surfaces. As one of China's top 10 pearlescent pigment exporters, Anhui iSuoChem, with its extensive technical expertise and export experience in the field, has become the preferred partner for the global coatings, plastics, inks, and cosmetics industries.

This article will delve into the core characteristics of pearlescent pigments in different application systems, helping you achieve more perfect visual effects in product development.

Characteristics of pearlescent pigments in different application systems

1. Application Characteristics in Coating Systems

Pearlescent pigments are most widely used in automotive paints, architectural coatings, and industrial coatings.

Weather Resistance and Physical Stability: iSuoChem's pearlescent pigments are coated with rutile titanium dioxide, exhibiting excellent lightfastness and chemical resistance.

Orientation: Pearlescent pigments have a plate-like structure. During spraying, the pigments must be oriented parallel to the substrate to produce the best "angle-dependent color" effect.

Dispersibility: Pearlescent pigments are inorganic pigments and tend to settle in low-viscosity systems. It is recommended to add rheology modifiers (such as fumed silica or bentonite) to the formulation to prevent precipitation.

Pic# Pearl pigment powder for metal coatings

2. Performance in the Plastics Industry

In injection molding, blow molding, and masterbatch processing, pearlescent pigments impart a silky sheen to plastic products.

High Temperature Resistance: Pearl pigments can typically withstand temperatures above 800°C, making them fully compatible with the processing of various thermoplastics.

Shear Sensitivity: The lamellar structure of pearlescent pigments is easily broken under excessive mechanical shear, resulting in damaged gloss. It is recommended to minimize high-shear time during processing or to add pigment at the end of the process.

Addition Ratio: A typical addition ratio is recommended between 0.5% and 2%; however, in masterbatches, the concentration can be as high as 20% to 30%.

3. Ink and Printing Systems

Pearlescent pigments perform exceptionally well in flexographic, gravure, and screen printing. • Particle Size Selection: This is crucial for the printing system. Higher network density requires finer pigment particle sizes.

Fine Particle Size (5-25µm): Good hiding power, soft gloss, suitable for fine text printing.

Coarse Particle Size (10-60µm+): High shimmer, strong transparency, suitable for large-area backgrounds.

Chemical Neutralization: Pearl pigments are non-conductive and chemically inert, and will not react with ink base materials.

Pic# Pearl pigment powder for leather

4. Cosmetics and Mica Powder

In the personal care field, Mica powder is the core base material for pearl pigments.

Purity and Safety: iSuoChem's cosmetic-grade mica powder strictly adheres to international heavy metal standards (FDA/EU).

Skin-Friendliness: Synthetic mica has higher whiteness and purity than natural mica, and a smoother feel, often used in high-end eyeshadows and lipsticks.

Light Diffusion Effect: Utilizing the refraction and reflection of light, pearlescent pigments can effectively conceal fine lines on the skin, enhancing the translucency of makeup.

Properties of Pearlescent Pigments in Different Systems

© 2023 Pearlescent Pigment Properties Study

Data is for reference only, actual application should be adjusted according to specific products and technical conditions

Characteristics of pearlescent pigments in different resin or solvent systems

Besides the application characteristics mentioned above, what specific characteristics do pearlescent pigments have when applied to resin systems or solvent systems?

Why Choose iSuoChem?

As one of China's top ten pearlescent pigment suppliers, iSuoChem not only provides products but also offers comprehensive application technical support.

Features & Advantages

Pic# Pearl pigment for cosmetics

In the market environment of 2026, the application of pearlescent pigments is developing towards environmental friendliness (solvent-free system compatibility) and functionalization (thermal insulation, conductivity). If you are looking for high-quality, cost-effective pearlescent pigments, iSuoChem's professional team will tailor a solution for you.

Experts advise that when selecting pearlescent pigments, it is essential to consider the refractive index of the carrier system. The greater the difference in refractive index between the pigment and the substrate, the more pronounced the pearlescent effect.

Need a sample for your next project? Contact iSuoChem, a top 10 China supplier, for expert guidance.