Nature's palette: organic and inorganic pigments

Nature's palette: organic and inorganic pigments

Thursday, 13 March, 2025

From the vibrant hues that brighten our walls to the plastics, inks, and ceramics shaping everyday objects, pigments are the unsung heroes of countless industries. These essential compounds infuse life, colour, and functionality into the products we rely on daily.

Pigments are broadly classified into two categories: organic and inorganic. Each type offers distinct characteristics, making them suited to different applications.

Organic pigments are renowned for their ability to produce rich, vivid, and diverse colours, making them ideal for projects where aesthetics take centre stage. In contrast, inorganic pigments are prized for their superior light fastness, heat resistance, and durability, qualities that make them the go-to choice for industrial coatings, outdoor paints, and other applications that demand resilience against harsh conditions.

Comparing Organic and Inorganic Pigments

Let’s break down the key differences between organic and inorganic pigments in terms of solubility, colour, stability, and durability:

	Organic Pigments	Inorganic Pigments
	They are commonly found in the paint, plastics, and ink industries.	They are extensively used across the paint, ceramics, and plastics sectors, among others.
Solubility	Can dissolve in some organic solvents but are less soluble in water.	Insoluble in water and most organic solvents.
Colour	Deliver a wide range of bright, intense colours.	Typically, opaquer and offer deeper, more muted tones.
Stability	Light fastness and heat resistance vary, some may fade under UV light, while others maintain their vibrancy.	Generally, more stable under light and heat exposure when compared to organic pigments.
Durability	Depends on the pigment’s chemical composition and colour.	More resistant to abrasion, weathering, and tough environmental conditions.

At Comindex, we provide an extensive range of pigments tailored to the unique demands of each industry. We’re here to help you find the perfect solution for your projects.

Our Technical-Commercial Advisory Team is ready to guide you every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out, we’re here to support your journey.

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