The difference between pigment and masterbatch lies mainly in their form, handling, dispersion, and application in coloring polymers:
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Form: Pigments are dry, solid, and powdery substances. Masterbatches are concentrated forms of pigments and additives encapsulated in a base polymer and come in pellet form.
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Handling: Pigments in powder form are difficult to handle, can become airborne during processing, causing contamination and health risks, and lead to messy work environments. Masterbatches are easier to store, transport, and handle since they are dust-free pellets.
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Dispersion and Application: Pigments need to be mixed manually and often do not disperse well in the polymer matrix, which can lead to inconsistent coloring and the need for more pigment to achieve the desired effect. Masterbatches have pigments pre-dispersed in a compatible polymer carrier that melts and disperses uniformly in the polymer melt, resulting in consistent and even coloration.
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Processing Advantages: Masterbatches improve melting processing by matching the base polymer carrier with the final product polymer, leading to better compatibility and color consistency. They also reduce cleaning times and production downtime compared to pigments.
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Additional Benefits: Masterbatches can include additives like flame retardants, UV stabilizers, and optical brighteners, allowing for multifunctional color concentrates. They also provide more control over the opacity or transparency of the final product.
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Usage Preference: Manufacturers frequently prefer masterbatch over raw pigments for better color consistency, cleaner and safer handling, easier processing, and improved production efficiency.
