Pigmentfärben

Pigmentfärben, also known as pigment dyeing, is a coloration process where insoluble particles, called pigments, are bound to the surface of a material. Unlike dyes, which chemically react with the substrate to become part of its structure, pigments remain on the surface as a separate layer. This method is used across various industries, including textiles, plastics, paints, and inks.

In textiles, pigment dyeing offers a wide color palette and good lightfastness. The pigments are dispersed in a binder, which is then applied to the fabric. The binder adheres the pigment particles to the fibers. This process is often considered more environmentally friendly than some dyeing methods as it typically uses less water and energy, and the wastewater can be easier to treat. However, pigment dyeing can sometimes affect the feel or drape of the fabric, potentially making it stiffer or less breathable compared to dyed materials.

In the realm of plastics, pigments are incorporated into the polymer melt or resin before molding. This ensures the color is distributed throughout the plastic. For paints and inks, pigments provide opacity and color to the liquid medium, which then dries to form a colored film. The choice between pigments and dyes depends on the desired properties of the final product, such as durability, chemical resistance, and the intended application.