Pigmentets

Pigmentets is a term that appears in Scandinavian languages as the genitive or possessive form of pigment, used to indicate ownership or association with a pigment. The word pigment itself denotes a substance that provides color by absorbing certain wavelengths of light. Unlike dyes, pigments are typically insoluble and used as solid particles dispersed in a medium.

Pigments are broadly classified as inorganic and organic. Inorganic pigments include iron oxides, carbonates, ochres, and synthetic varieties such as ultramarine and titanium dioxide (white). Organic pigments are based on carbon-containing molecules, such as phthalocyanines, quinacridones, and carbon black. Natural pigments occur in minerals and plants, including cinnabar (red mercury sulfide) and plant pigments like chlorophyll.

In practice, pigments are used in paints, inks, plastics, cosmetics, and food coloring. They are applied as dispersions in binders and carriers. Performance is assessed by color and lightfastness, tinting strength, transparency, and chemical stability. Regulatory frameworks regulate pigment safety, especially for pigments used in consumer products, with restrictions on certain heavy metals and persistent pigments.

Biologically, pigmentary colors arise from pigments in plants and animals, such as chlorophyll for photosynthesis, carotenoids for photoprotection, and melanin for protection. The observed color of pigments results from selective absorption and reflection of light.

Etymology: pigment derives from Latin pigmentum. In Scandinavian languages, pigmentets denotes the pigment’s possession, reflecting the language’s definite and genitive forms.