Färginstitute

Färginstitute is a research organization dedicated to color science, pigment technology, and color management. It conducts interdisciplinary studies on color perception, material properties, and the application of color in industry and design. Operating as a non-profit institution, it emphasizes open science, education, and the development of practical standards for professionals who work with color.

Founded in 1985 through a collaboration of universities, public research labs, and color-oriented industries in the Nordic region, Färginstitute aimed to advance color research and translate findings into real-world tools. Over time it expanded its international partnerships, integrated digital methods, and broadened its training and certification offerings.

Key activities include basic and applied research in pigment synthesis and color measurement, development of color spaces and perceptual models, and testing and certification services for paints, textiles, and printers. The institute also runs educational programs, hosts conferences, and publishes reports and journals on color science.

Governance is provided by a board of directors and a scientific advisory council. Funding comes from government grants, industry sponsorship, contract research, and membership dues. Research facilities include spectrophotometry laboratories, pigment synthesis labs, textile dyeing suites, and digital color rendering workstations.

Färginstitute has contributed to international color standards and best practices through collaborations with standards bodies such as ISO and CIE. It supports sustainability in color-related industries by evaluating eco-friendly materials and lifecycle impacts of pigments and coatings.