Epoxy pigment refers to a coloring agent used specifically with epoxy resin systems to achieve vibrant, opaque, or transparent finishes for coatings, art, flooring, jewelry, countertops, and industrial applications. Here's a detailed breakdown of epoxy pigments:
🔍 What Is Epoxy Pigment?
Epoxy pigment is a colorant designed to blend uniformly into epoxy resin systems. It gives color to the resin without affecting its chemical structure, curing process, or mechanical properties when used appropriately.
🧪 Types of Epoxy Pigments
Liquid Pigments
Highly concentrated and easy to mix.
Provide deep, opaque, or translucent shades.
Ideal for art, countertops, and deep pours.
Often a mix of pigment particles suspended in a resin-compatible carrier.
Brands: Black Diamond, Alumilite, ArtResin Pigments.
Powder Pigments (Mica or Metallic Pigments)
Dry pigments, often mica-based.
Used for shimmering, metallic, or pearlescent effects.
Good for river tables, jewelry, and artistic work.
Require thorough mixing to avoid clumping.
Brands: Eye Candy Pigments, Just Resin, ResinTint.
Paste Pigments
Thick, highly pigmented pastes.
Offer high opacity and rich colors.
Common in marine coatings and industrial use.
Universal Colorants or Dyes
Often transparent.
Can tint epoxy for stained-glass or tinted-clear effects.
Alcohol- or solvent-based dyes are often used with caution.
🎨 Pigment Effects
Opaque/solid color – Using a higher pigment ratio.
Translucent/tinted – Using a low pigment ratio.
Metallic/pearlescent – With mica or metallic powders.
Glow in the dark – Using phosphorescent pigments.
Color shift/iridescent – For automotive or specialty finishes.
⚖️ Mixing Ratio
Typical usage: 1–5% pigment by weight of the epoxy resin.
Over-pigmenting can interfere with curing or lead to soft spots, especially in clear casting resins.
🛠️ Applications
Application Pigment Type Notes
River Tables Mica powders, liquid dyes For color depth and swirl effects
Jewelry/Art Liquid or powder Translucent or metallic effects
Countertops/Floors Liquid or paste Durable, even coverage
Marine Coatings Paste pigments UV and water resistant
⚠️ Tips for Use
Mix thoroughly to avoid streaks or unmixed pigment.
Wear gloves/mask for powders – avoid inhalation.
Test batch always recommended for new projects.
Some pigments may fade over time without UV stabilizer.
📦 Storage
Keep sealed and away from sunlight and humidity.
Liquid pigments can settle – shake well before use.