PC800 Pure copper bronze powder for decorative coatings

Product Overview — Copper-Zinc Alloy Metallic Pigment

KT-PC800 is a fine-grade metallic powder from our gold bronze series, engineered to deliver genuine copper color through actual metal alloy particles rather than interference coatings. At 800 mesh, the flakes are fine enough that individual particles are not visible to the naked eye — you get a smooth, continuous metallic surface that reads as pure copper across picture frames, decorative hardware, and premium packaging.

In our application lab, we frequently see formulators choose this grade when they need a warm metallic finish that stays opaque even at moderate loadings. The copper-zinc alloy composition provides the color depth and reflectivity that aluminum-based metallics cannot match, especially in decorative coating applications where authenticity matters.

Technical Characteristics

One thing to note: the high specific gravity of copper-zinc alloy powder means proper dispersion equipment is essential. Low-shear mixing with a Cowles blade disperser works well — avoid ball mills or high-intensity mixers that flatten the flakes and reduce the metallic effect.

Application Guide — Where KT-PC800 Works

From our experience supporting decorative coating customers, KT-PC800 fits applications where a warm, metallic copper finish is the primary design goal and where water resistance or extreme pH stability is not a critical requirement. Typical uses include:

• Decorative coatings: Picture frames, furniture trim, hardware finishes, architectural molding
• Printing inks: Packaging, labels, gift wrap, greeting cards, security printing (where metallic authentication is needed)
• Plastics masterbatch: Injection molding and extrusion for decorative consumer goods
• Craft supplies: Scrapbooking materials, model making, hobby finishes
• Textile printing: Decorative fabric treatments (solvent or specialty ink systems)
• Religious and cultural items: Statue decoration, temple ornaments, ceremonial objects
• Foil substitute: Cost-effective alternative to metallic foil in printing and packaging

Not suitable for cosmetics or personal care products. Metal pigments like KT-PC800 are industrial-grade materials and do not meet cosmetic regulatory requirements.

Water-Based Formulation Requirements

Bronze powders react with water, generating hydrogen gas and causing oxidation and discoloration. If you need to use KT-PC800 in a water-based coating or ink, the powder must be surface-coated with a protective barrier — typically silica, stearate, or polymer encapsulation. Our AC series bronze powders are formulated with surface treatments for water-based compatibility; KT-PC800 is not specifically listed as an AC-series product and is best suited for solvent-based systems unless you add your own protective coating in-house.

Related Products — Kolortek Gold Bronze Series

KT-PC800 is part of a broader gold bronze series covering different colors and mesh sizes. If you need a slightly different copper tone or a coarser/finer finish, these related models may fit:

We also produce extended Red Copper RX, Cyan Red Gold CX, Cyan Gold GX, and Antique Bronze BX series covering mesh ranges from 220 to 1500 for specialized effects. A coarser mesh (e.g., 220) gives a more textured, visible-flake metallic appearance; finer meshes (1000+) approach a satin metallic finish.

Processing & Handling Tips

Dispersion Best Practices

Use low-shear mixing to preserve flake integrity. High-speed dispersers with Cowles blades work well — they break up agglomerates without flattening the metal particles. Avoid ball mills, three-roll mills, or high-intensity mixers that apply excessive mechanical force. If you are formulating a multi-component system, add the bronze powder at the final stage under gentle stirring to minimize flake damage.

Storage & Shelf Life

Store KT-PC800 in sealed containers in a dry environment. Metal flakes oxidize when exposed to moisture and air, which can dull the color and reduce reflectivity. We don't have public shelf-life data for this specific grade, but typical bronze powders maintain performance for 12–24 months under proper storage conditions.

Quality & Compliance

Kolortek holds ISO 9001:2015 certification covering production and sales of effect pigments. KT-PC800 is classified as a non-flammable solid and is not hazardous for transport. That said, the product is electrically conductive and should not be used in applications where electrical insulation is required. We do not have cosmetic-grade certifications for this material — it is intended for industrial coatings, inks, plastics, and related decorative applications only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use KT-PC800 pure copper bronze powder in water-based coatings?

Bronze powders react with water, generating hydrogen gas and causing oxidation. If you need to use KT-PC800 in water-based systems, you must apply a protective surface coating such as silica, stearate, or polymer encapsulation. Alternatively, consider our AC series bronze powders, which are formulated for water-based compatibility. KT-PC800 performs best in solvent-based systems where water reactivity is not a concern.

What is the difference between 800-mesh and 1000-mesh bronze powder?

Mesh size controls the visual texture of the metallic finish. At 800 mesh, individual flakes are not visible — you get a smooth, uniform copper surface. At 1000 mesh (finer), the finish becomes slightly more satin-like with even less visible texture. For applications like printing inks and decorative coatings where a polished metallic look is desired, 800 mesh is typically the sweet spot. Coarser grades (e.g., 220 mesh) show visible flake structure and a more textured metallic appearance.

What loading rate should I use for decorative coating bronze pigment in picture frame finishes?

For full opacity and excellent hiding power in decorative coatings, we typically recommend 3–8% loading by weight. Start at 5% for most solvent-based clear coats or lacquers applied to wood or metal substrates. If the substrate is dark and you need maximum coverage, increase to 6–8%. At these loadings, KT-PC800 delivers a solid copper finish without visible base color bleed-through. Lower loadings (2–3%) can be used for translucent metallic glazes where some substrate visibility is desired.

Is bulk red copper powder from Kolortek suitable for high-temperature plastics processing?

Yes. KT-PC800 is heat stable to high temperatures because it is a metal-based pigment, not an organic dye or interference coating that can degrade under heat. Copper-zinc alloy powders maintain color and metallic appearance through typical plastics processing temperatures for injection molding and extrusion. That said, if your formulation includes acidic additives or plasticizers, verify pH compatibility — bronze powders can tarnish in environments with pH below 6 or above 9.

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