Pigmentkern

Pigmentkern, also called pigment kernel, is a term used in pigment technology to denote the central core of a pigment particle. The kernel is typically an inorganic crystalline phase that determines the fundamental color, opacity, and refractive properties of the pigment, while any surrounding shell or coating can modify stability, dispersibility, and interaction with binders.

In core-shell pigment design, the kernel provides the baseline optical performance, and the outer layer protects it from chemical attack, improves weather resistance, and enhances compatibility with specific media. The coating can be inorganic or organic, and may influence hue slightly through optical effects at the particle surface.

Common kernels include iron oxides (red, brown, black), titanium dioxide, zinc oxide and related compounds; dopants and lattice structure can tune hue and brightness. The shell materials are chosen to improve dispersion, reduce agglomeration, and tailor interactions with polymers.

Preparation of pigment kernels generally involves synthesis of the inorganic core via precipitation or high-temperature routes, followed by controlled coating processes such as chemical vapor deposition, sol-gel, or colloidal deposition. Characterization uses electron microscopy to observe size and morphology, X-ray diffraction for phase identification, and spectroscopic methods for composition and optical properties.

Applications span paints, coatings, plastics and cosmetics, where the kernel determines key color and lightfastness traits, while the outer shell addresses processability and durability. See also: core-shell pigments, inorganic pigments.