August 28, 2024 – Whitening pigments play a crucial role in various industries, enhancing whiteness through different mechanisms. Let’s delve into some prominent types of these pigments.
Firstly, fluorescent whitening agents, also known as fluorescent dyes or optical brighteners, are complex organic compounds. Depending on their chemical structures, they can be categorized into various types such as distyrylbiphenyl and coumarin derivatives. These agents work by converting invisible UV light into visible blue or blue-violet light. When combined with the yellow light inherent in the material, they emit a soft white glow, making items appear cleaner and more pleasing to the eye. These agents are widely used in textiles, paper manufacturing, detergents, plastics, and more, elevating the aesthetics and quality of products.
Another notable whitening pigment is titanium dioxide, an inorganic pigment offering high whiteness, excellent covering power, and stability. Its whitening effect stems from its unique interaction with light, including its high refractive index, uniformly fine particles, and specific crystal structure. These factors enable titanium dioxide to effectively scatter and absorb light, enhancing the whiteness and brightness of objects. Consequently, it finds applications in paints, plastics, paper manufacturing, and other sectors.
Lastly, ultramarine blue deserves mention. Its whitening principle relies on its optical color effect. Absorbing red light and emitting blue, when applied to yellow-toned surfaces, it effectively neutralizes the yellow tint, resulting in a cleaner, whiter appearance. Due to its subtle and natural whitening effect, ultramarine blue is commonly used in artworks, paints, and certain plastic products.
According to AsiaMB, advancements in technology and evolving market demands will further expand the application areas of whitening pigments and continuously optimize their performance. This undoubtedly paves the way for more innovative opportunities and market potential in related industries.