AC811 Antique bronze metallic powder bulk order factory direct pricing

What Makes AC811 a Genuine Metallic Bronze

AC811 is a copper-zinc alloy powder — real metal particles that reflect light like a polished bronze surface. This is fundamentally different from pearl or interference pigments built on mica platelets. When you need that authentic metallic look — the kind you see on hardware finishes, picture frames, or traditional foil stamping — interference pigments can't deliver it. The metal flakes in AC811 provide a true metallic sheen with excellent hiding power.

At 800 mesh, the particle size is fine enough that individual flakes aren't visible to the eye. You get a smooth, uniform metallic finish rather than visible sparkle. This mesh grade is our most widely specified for printing inks and general decorative coatings where a refined metallic surface is the goal.

Gold Bronze Powder Series — Model Range and Selection

AC811 sits within Kolortek's Gold Bronze Powder Series, which spans 200 to 1500 mesh across multiple color variants. The series includes bronze, flavone, pure copper, red copper, cyan red gold, antique bronze, and cyan gold — each available in mesh sizes tailored to specific application requirements.

The BX, CX, GX, and RX series variants extend the range with seven mesh options from 220 to 1500. Coarser grades (200–400 mesh) produce visible sparkle for decorative effects. Finer grades (1200–1500 mesh) are formulated for high-quality offset and gravure printing where a silky, refined metallic finish is required. Selection depends on the visual effect you need and the application method.

Technical Performance and Formulation Limits

Hiding Power and Loading

AC811 is fully opaque at 3–8% loading in most formulations. The high specific gravity of the copper-zinc alloy delivers excellent coverage — you don't need to push loading rates into double digits to achieve solid metallic coverage. This makes it cost-effective in high-volume production.

Thermal Stability

Metal-based pigments are thermally stable at high processing temperatures. AC811 does not degrade or discolor under heat, which makes it suitable for plastics extrusion, injection molding, and baking systems in coatings. We don't have a published upper temperature limit in our technical data, but in practice, the alloy holds up through standard thermoplastic and thermoset processing cycles.

Chemical Resistance and pH Limits

Copper-zinc alloys are reactive in acidic and alkaline environments. AC811 should only be used in formulations with pH roughly 6–9. Outside that range, the metal may tarnish or discolor. This is a fundamental limitation of metallic powders — you can't push them into strongly acidic or alkaline systems without surface protection or encapsulation.

Water Reactivity

Bare copper-zinc powder reacts with water, producing hydrogen gas and discoloration. If you're formulating in water-based systems, the metal must be surface-treated — typically with silica, stearate, or polymer encapsulation. Our AC series is suitable for water-based formulations when properly protected. If you're building a water-based ink or coating, discuss surface treatment options with us before specifying the material.

Electrical Conductivity

AC811 is electrically conductive. This is a feature in some applications (EMI shielding, antistatic coatings) and a constraint in others. If you need electrical insulation, metallic powders are not the right choice — switch to mica-based interference pigments or non-metallic alternatives.

Applications and Compatibility

AC811 is positioned for decorative and functional applications where a genuine metallic bronze effect is required. Primary markets include:

• Printing inks: Packaging, labels, gift wrap, greeting cards, security printing. The 800-mesh grade disperses cleanly in ink vehicles and provides a smooth metallic finish on paper and film substrates.
• Decorative coatings: Picture frames, furniture trim, hardware finishes, architectural accents. Works in solvent-based and water-based systems with appropriate surface protection.
• Plastics: Injection molding and extrusion for decorative consumer goods, automotive interior trim, appliance housings. Add to masterbatch or direct-compound into resin.
• Textiles: Screen printing and transfer printing for fabric decoration. Provides a metallic bronze finish on garments and home textiles.
• Craft and art supplies: Scrapbooking, model making, decorative art projects. Popular in DIY and hobbyist markets for its authentic metallic appearance.
• Religious and cultural items: Statue decoration, temple ornaments, traditional crafts. Antique bronze is a classic finish in this segment.

AC811 is not for cosmetics or personal care. Metal pigments are not cosmetic-grade and must not be used in products applied to skin or near mucous membranes. We also don't position this material for food-contact applications.

Dispersion and Processing Recommendations

Metallic powders require low-shear mixing to preserve the flake structure. High-speed dispersers with Cowles blades work well — they provide sufficient shear to break up agglomerates without flattening the metal particles. Avoid ball mills and high-intensity mixers, which deform the flakes and reduce the metallic effect.

For water-based systems, verify that your grade has the appropriate surface treatment before compounding. If you're experiencing hydrogen evolution, discoloration, or settling issues, the metal is reacting with water — switch to a protected grade or adjust your formulation pH.

Store AC811 in sealed containers in a dry environment. Exposure to moisture and air accelerates oxidation and tarnishing. The material is classified as a non-flammable solid and is not hazardous for transport, which simplifies logistics for bulk orders.

Bulk Order and Factory-Direct Advantages

Kolortek manufactures the Gold Bronze Powder series in-house, which gives us control over batch consistency and lead times. We support bulk orders with flexible MOQs, OEM/ODM manufacturing, and private label packaging. If you're running production trials or evaluating bronze powder suppliers, we offer free evaluation samples for qualified inquiries.

Custom color matching and formulation guidance are available. If you need a specific bronze tone or a particle size not listed in our standard range, we can develop a custom grade. Our technical team works with formulators to optimize loading rates, dispersion methods, and compatibility with specific resin or solvent systems.

TDS and SDS documentation are provided with shipments. Regulatory documentation (REACH, product-specific compliance certificates) is available on request, subject to grade, batch, and destination. We ship to over 100 countries and maintain a global distribution network for reliable supply.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 800-mesh and 1200-mesh antique bronze powder?

800-mesh AC811 produces a smooth, uniform metallic finish suitable for standard printing inks and decorative coatings. 1200-mesh AC812 is finer, delivering a silky, high-quality finish preferred for offset and gravure printing where surface refinement is critical. Both are fully opaque at 3–8% loading; the choice depends on the visual refinement required and the application method.

Can AC811 be used in water-based coatings and inks?

Yes, AC811 is suitable for water-based systems when the metal is surface-protected with silica, stearate, or polymer encapsulation. Bare copper-zinc powder reacts with water, producing hydrogen gas and discoloration. Verify your grade has the appropriate surface treatment, and keep formulation pH between 6 and 9 to prevent tarnishing.

Is AC811 approved for cosmetics or food-contact applications?

No. Metal pigments are not cosmetic-grade and must not be used in personal care products. AC811 is also not positioned for food-contact applications. It is intended for decorative coatings, printing inks, plastics, textiles, and craft supplies where genuine metallic bronze effects are required.

What is the typical loading rate for full opacity with AC811?

3–8% by weight in most formulations. The high specific gravity and excellent hiding power of the copper-zinc alloy deliver solid metallic coverage at relatively low loading levels, making AC811 cost-effective in high-volume production runs.

Contact our technical team to discuss formulation requirements for your specific application.