How to disperse pearl pigments more easily?

To make the dispersion of pearl pigments easier, you can pre-wet them.

Wetting time should be at least 15 minutes.

First, it is recommended to mix some of the pearl powder with a compatible solvent, diluent(thinner) or plasticizer to form a slurry. Then, evenly stir the slurry into the remaining portion. Pearl pigments can be dispersed using a regular stirrer, similar to metallic powders. The correct stirring method is as follows: Add the pearl powder to a carrier that is being stirred with low shear force using an axial flow mixer. The pigment should not be poured in all at once, but gradually. Continue adding as the first portion is sufficiently wetted until all is wetted. Finally, continue stirring for 15 minutes to ensure better dispersion. An axial rotary stirrer can be used, with the pigment volume less than 25% and the stirring speed not too fast. 

During stirring, the height of the stirrer paddle should be varied to prevent uneven mixing in the dead zones directly below the stirrer.

The sheet-like state and corresponding brittleness(easily broken) of the pigment necessitate the use of only very low shear forces during dispersion. Machinery used for mixing regular pigments, such as roller mills, ball mills, or stone mills, should not be used, as these machines can damage the sheet-like structure of the pigments, causing a loss of gloss. If a disperser is used, only a short mixing time is permitted. It is recommended to use equal mixing times and speeds for each batch of paint under identical conditions.

FAQ

Q1: What is the Pearl pigment dispersion method?

The amount of pigment used should be less than 25%. Low-speed stirring is key.

Pre-wet the pigment.

After thoroughly wetting, gradually pour in the remaining pearlescent pigment.

After complete wetting, continue stirring for 15 minutes.

Q2: Can you provide online guidance on how to properly disperse pearl pigments?

Yes. iSuoChem Pearl Pigment Ltd. has professional engineers who can communicate with you online and provide guidance on how to properly disperse pearlescent pigments, including formulation suggestions.
iSuoChem is one of China's largest exporters of pearlescent pigments and pastes. It exports over a thousand tons annually, primarily to overseas markets. You can email [email protected] at any time to obtain formulations and manufacturing guidelines for pearlescent inks and coatings.

Gold pearl pigment to make gold pearlescent ink/paint

Q3: How to disperse and stabilize Pearl pigments?

Dispersing and Stabilizing Pearl Pigments:

Maintaining the integrity, full wetting, and parallel alignment of the thin, flat, lamellar mica particles.

1. Dispersion (Wetting and Separation):

The method for effectively dispersing pearl pigments has been detailed above. To add to this, remember to use a dispersant: a compatible wetting agent (surfactant) helps coat and separate the particles.

2. Stabilization (Preventing Settling and Promoting Alignment):

Rheology modifiers, and the proper use of thixotropic additives (e.g., fumed silica for solvent-based additives, associative thickeners for water-based additives).

This prevents pearl luster pigment sedimentation (settling at the bottom), ensures the pearlescent particles are neatly aligned during application, and "locks" them in place after application, achieving optimal gloss.

A simple principle for pearl paints: low shear force during mixing, high viscosity when standing.