General Handling Information

The metal pigments described are based on aluminium or gold bronze with accurately controlled particle size distribution. The large variety offered permits a wide range of metallic effects. To obtain the following optimum pigment characteristics brilliance brightness coverage The metal pigment must be distributed homogeneously in the selected binder system. In order to achieve this it is desirable to make a paste or premix. This can be done in two ways. Non mechanically, by soaking the pigment powder with solvent for a period of time to produce a simple non dusting paste. Mechanically, by adding a controlled quantity of ink vehicle to the pigment in a suitable mixer/disperser. To avoid deformation of the flake it is important to use the correct mixing equipment to give optimum mixing efficiency without excessive shear or temperature, as this may cause a loss of leafing properties resulting in lower brilliance. These guidelines can also be used when dispersing pastes. It should not be necessary to mix for prolonged periods to achieve a homogeneous paste. It is important that the solvents used are free of water. Chlorinated hydrocarbons are not suitable solvents for metallic pigments.