Interferenspigment

Interferenspigment, or interference pigment, is a type of effect pigment that derives its color primarily from the interference of light waves rather than from pigmentary absorption. Commercially important variants usually consist of microscopic platelets, such as mica or polymer flakes, coated with ultra-thin layers of inorganic oxides. The coating causes reflected light waves from adjacent surfaces to interfere, producing vivid colors with strong iridescence.

The observed hue depends on the thickness and optical properties of the coating, the refractive indices of the layers, and the viewing and illumination geometry. As the angle between the light source, the pigment, and the observer changes, the constructive and destructive interference shifts, yielding color travel and a pearlescent or metallic luster. Many interference pigments employ one or more thin oxide layers in a multilayer stack to broaden the color range and improve brightness and stability.

Composition and production involve a transparent substrate such as mica or a polymer, followed by a precisely controlled thin coating of metal oxide (commonly titanium dioxide) and sometimes additional layers. The result is a lightweight pigment with high refractive contrast and directional reflectivity. Manufacturing requires careful deposition techniques and quality control to ensure uniform coating thickness and particle dispersion.

Applications span automotive coatings, plastics, inks and paints, cosmetics, and security or packaging features where vivid, angle-dependent color is desirable. Interference pigments are valued for their brightness, durability, and ability to create shifting color effects without relying on pigments that absorb light.