Pigments are the essence of every paint formula, defining its color, coverage, and durability. Among the wide range of options, titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and iron oxide stand out as two of the most commonly used inorganic pigments. Though they share similar stability, their functions and visual effects differ greatly.
OVERVIEW OF TiO₂ AND IRON OXIDE
Titanium dioxide is the most effective white pigment, known for its excellent brightness and opacity. It reflects light efficiently, providing outstanding coverage and a pure white tone. TiO₂ is also a critical base pigment for creating pastel and light-colored paints. Iron oxide, on the other hand, naturally occurs in various earthy shades — red, yellow, brown, and black. It offers strong color stability, excellent UV resistance, and outstanding thermal durability. Its ability to maintain color in harsh environments makes it a preferred pigment for industrial and exterior coatings.
COMPARISON BETWEEN TiO₂ AND IRON OXIDE
| Criteria | Iron Oxide | Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main function | Provides red, yellow, black and brown tones | Provides whiteness, brightness, and opacity | ||
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Pure white | ||
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Excellent – the best among pigments | ||
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Moderate |
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Excellent; UV and heat stable |
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Significantly higher |
ADVANTAGES, LIMITATIONS, AND RECOMMENDED USES
Iron oxide
Iron oxide pigments are affordable, highly stable, and resistant to fading under sunlight or heat. They are ideal for applications that prioritize durability and cost efficiency, such as industrial paints, stone-effect finishes, or exterior coatings. Their weaknesses lie in lower brightness and opacity compared to TiO₂. Yet they disperse easily, are non-toxic, and compatible with various resin systems. For manufacturers emphasizing long-term stability, iron oxide is a safe and sustainable pigment choice.
Titanium dioxide
TiO₂ remains the standard for brightness and coverage. It produces paints that are glossy, smooth, and aesthetically refined. However, if not properly treated, it can suffer from chalking due to UV exposure. Despite this, TiO₂ is the preferred pigment for high-end paints, both water-based and solvent-based. It enhances product value, color clarity, and visual depth, making it indispensable in architectural and automotive coatings.
CHOOSING BETWEEN TiO₂ AND IRON OXIDE
The decision depends on the paint’s target market and formulation goals. When cost and long-term color stability are priorities, iron oxide provides excellent results. It performs well under outdoor exposure and remains stable for years. However, when the focus is on brightness, whiteness, and premium surface finish, TiO₂ is unmatched. It brings elegance and refinement to paint films, delivering high opacity and smoothness that appeal to high-end customers.
Mời bạn tham khảo các sản phẩm bột TiO₂ được phân phối chính hãng tại Vichem:
VICHEM – AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTOR OF CERTIFIED TiO₂ IN VIETNAM
Vichem is a trusted distributor of titanium dioxide in Vietnam, supplying products that meet international standards. Beyond material delivery, Vichem provides technical consultation, laboratory testing, and application support to ensure consistent results for every customer. Our professional services include:
- Technical consultation: Expert guidance to help select the most suitable TiO₂ grade for specific coating systems.
- Quality testing: Laboratory analysis and performance testing to verify pigment dispersion, opacity, and durability.
- Application support: Assistance during production and formulation to optimize pigment performance in actual use.
For more details or technical advice, please contact us:
📞 Hotline: 08 1790 1790
📧 Email: contact@vichem.vn
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🌐 Website: www.vichem.vn
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