Blue-Green to Red Color Shift Pigment, 5–25μm – KT-95102

Blue-Green to Red Color Shift Pigment, 5–25μm – KT-95102

Pearlescent Pigments › Chameleon Series › Color Shift Pigments

KT-95102 is a fine particle size chameleon pigment (5–25μm) designed for applications requiring smooth surface finish and controlled color travel. It delivers a distinct blue-green to red shift, using multi-layer titanium dioxide coatings on transparent flake substrates. The fine grade makes it particularly suitable for printing inks, coatings, and cosmetic formulations where both visual effect and film uniformity are critical.

Product Positioning in the Chameleon Range

KT-95102 belongs to the fine-grade segment of Kolortek’s chameleon pigment portfolio. Compared with larger particle sizes (e.g., 20–80μm), this 5–25μm grade prioritizes surface smoothness, printability, and film uniformity over sparkle intensity. It is commonly selected for applications where coating thickness is limited or fine detail reproduction is required, such as gravure and screen printing, as well as thin coating layers.

Color Shift Mechanism

The blue-green to red transition is achieved through multi-layer thin-film interference on highly transparent flakes. At different viewing angles, specific wavelengths are selectively reflected while others pass through and are absorbed by the background. This creates a dynamic color travel effect rather than a static tone.

In KT-95102, the shift moves from blue-green at direct angles to red at oblique angles. This complementary color pairing produces a strong visual contrast even in thin films, making it suitable for applications requiring visible effect at low film thickness.

Technical Specifications

Typical Applications

• Printing inks: Suitable for gravure, screen, and security printing where fine particle size ensures smooth ink transfer and nozzle compatibility.
• Coatings: Used in thin-film decorative coatings and automotive refinishing layers requiring controlled film build.
• Plastics: Applied in masterbatch systems where finer pigments help maintain surface finish in molded parts.
• Cosmetics: Used in nail lacquer and eye products where smooth texture and controlled color shift are required.

Formulation Notes

Low shear mixing is recommended: Fine chameleon pigments can be damaged under high shear, reducing color travel intensity. Add at the letdown stage where possible.

Base color selection: A dark or black substrate is required to achieve clear blue-green to red color shift. Light-colored bases will significantly reduce the effect.

Loading guidance: Typical usage ranges from 5–15% depending on system transparency and film thickness. Lower loading can still produce visible effect due to fine particle distribution.

Why Work with Kolortek

With over 20 years of experience in effect pigment manufacturing, Kolortek supplies a broad range of chameleon pigments with consistent coating quality and particle size control. Our portfolio covers both fine and coarse grades, allowing formulators to match performance requirements across different applications.

Technical support is available for grade selection, dispersion methods, and application compatibility. Documentation such as TDS and SDS can be provided upon request.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why choose a 5–25μm chameleon pigment instead of 20–80μm?
A: The 5–25μm grade provides smoother surface finish and better compatibility with printing systems and thin coatings, while larger sizes provide stronger sparkle and visual texture.

Q: Can this pigment be used in printing inks?
A: Yes. Fine particle size makes it suitable for gravure and screen printing systems, but mesh size and ink formulation should be verified during trials.

Q: Does it require a specific base color?
A: Yes. A dark or black base is required to achieve the full color shift effect.

Request Samples or Technical Support

Evaluate KT-95102 in your own formulation to assess color travel and compatibility. Contact Kolortek for samples, technical data sheets, or support on selecting the appropriate particle size for your application.