Pigment Performance in Special Applications

There is no precise definition for the frequently used term application fastness of a pigment. It usually refers to the behavior exhibited by a finished product used in accordance with the specifications. The term may thus refer to a print, a coated object, or a plastic product, and the list of features ranges from properties such as lightfastness and weatherfastness to migration fastness and fastness to solvents. In this context, there is a certain amount of emphasis on features which play a role in connection with packaging materials and packed articles. 

Likewise, the behavior of a print in connection with sausage, ham, bacon, or fish, or its sensitivity to cleaning agents, disinfectants, bath soaps, essential oils, or fertilizers may be determined accordingly. 

Colored household items made of plastics and other polymers [21] are tested similarly. The effect of food may be imitated by using coconut oil or peanut oil ( coconut oil test ). Strips of filter paper soaked with these materials typically remain in contact with the test sample for 5 hours at 50°C. 

Different demands are placed on a pigment which is targeted for covered or laminated printing. In this technique, a reverse impression is printed onto a plastic film and laminated by means of one or two component adhesives, laminating resins and wax onto another substrate such as paper, aluminum foil, or polymer foil. These substances may adversely affect pigment performance. For high gloss applications, a normal impression is covered with a clear plastic film. 

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