Pigment Vs. Masterbatch: What is the Difference? Which is Better?
In plastic manufacturing, exact colour match, colour stability and batch-to-batch consistency are crucial. Pigments and colour masterbatches are two popular colouring agents, each with unique benefits and suitability for different plastic processing requirements. However, there is a misconception that pigments and masterbatches are the same. These are two different types of polymer colourants that enhance the appearance and functionality of products. In this blog, we discuss the difference between pigment and masterbatch, helping you choose the right colouring method for your specific application.
Colour Masterbatch Vs. Pigment: What is the Difference?
Colour masterbatches and pigments are colourants added to the plastic manufacturing process to produce vibrant & aesthetic end products. However, there are numerous differences between the two. Masterbatches are a concentrated blend of pigments, carrier resins and functional additives in the form of a masterbatch. On the other hand, pigments are coloured substances in powdered form.
How Masterbatches Edge Over Pigments?
At Perfect Colourants & Plastics Pvt.Ltd, as a top colour masterbatch manufacturer in India, we use the highest-quality pigments and additives in our masterbatches encapsulated in a carrier resin. Pigments are often messy and labour-intensive to integrate into the plastic production process. MBs are often produced in pellets or beads of various sizes, depending on a specific manufacturing process. Though pigments can be directly added to plastic processing processes, pigments alone do not disperse properly in the matrix. Masterbatches are designed and engineered for superior uniform dispersion in a polymer matrix. This is why plastic manufacturers prefer masterbatches over pigments.
Other Reasons Why Colour Masterbatches are Preferred Over Pigments
- Uniform Distribution: Colour MBs are compatible with various plastic resins that can be added into plastic production processing without creating any mess. While powdered form pigments are first suspended in a liquid before being it into the matrix. This is why pigments are suitable with inks, dyes and paints.
- Easier to Work With: MBs are a form of granules that do not cause any airborne contamination, which is common in pigments.
- Added Functionality: As a leading additive masterbatch supplier in India, we offer customization in our MB with added functional additives like antistatic agents or processing aids to improve the performance of end products.
- Cost-Effective: A colour MB is composed of carrier resins and pigments in the form of pellets, which implies a lower amount of pigments is used than pure pigments.
Pigment Vs. Masterbatch: Which is Better?
When it comes to choosing between pigments and masterbatches, it depends on specific requirements. Pigments are a flexible and quick colouring option, but they need a high degree of operational expertise. This is why masterbatches are a great option with their higher colour stability, convenience and added value. At PCPPL, as a top masterbatch company in India, we offer a range of colour MBs available in various colours and custom colours that are 100% match to your desired shade. To discuss all your plastic masterbatch requirements, call us.
