Lanxess IPG Delivers Expert Pigment Analysis for Colorful Biodegradable Plastics

Lanxess’ Inorganic Pigments (IPG) unit supports masterbatch producers by delivering precise pigment analyses, enabling the formulation of colored biodegradable plastics that meet stringent heavy‑metal regulations.

IPG’s unique service recommends optimal iron‑oxide pigment concentrations from the Colortherm brand, ensuring low heavy‑metal content while maintaining color quality.

Regulated limits prohibit certain pigment classes—such as nickel, chrome, or copper‑based pigments—in renewable or fossil‑based bioplastics. IPG’s Colortherm iron‑oxides bypass these restrictions, providing a compliant, high‑performance coloring solution.

“Our Colortherm iron oxide pigments are ideally suited to the task of coloring compostable plastics. The decomposition of the polymer is not affected. Based on the recommended pigment dosing, masterbatch producers can instantly develop individual formulations for colored biodegradable plastics – no expensive pigment screening is required.” – Stefano Bartolucci, IPG Global Market Segment Manager for Plastics.

Colortherm iron‑oxide pigments are verified to be virtually free of heavy metals, allowing masterbatch producers to incorporate high pigment loads without exceeding regulatory thresholds.

Available in red, yellow, brown, black, and a wide range of intermediate shades, the pigments require no special labeling and are not classified as hazardous substances.

Consistent, high product quality results from controlled raw materials and rigorous, continuous quality assurance.

Biodegradable plastics must satisfy regional standards such as the EU EN 13432:2000 and the US ASTM D 6400 for compostability in municipal and industrial aerobic facilities. Colortherm pigments are engineered to meet these criteria effortlessly.