Wholesale AC818 cyan gold bronze powder for plastics and coatings

Product Overview

KT-AC818 belongs to Kolortek's Gold Bronze Powder Series, a family of genuine metallic pigments built on copper-zinc alloy chemistry. Unlike mica-based pearl pigments that create color through light interference, this is a metal-flake powder that delivers true metallic reflection. The cyan gold color sits in the cooler end of the gold spectrum — useful when formulators want to avoid the warm, brassy tone of standard gold bronze and need a finish that reads more neutral or slightly greenish under certain lighting.

We classify 800 mesh as fine within our bronze powder range (which spans 200 to 1500 mesh). At this particle size, individual metal flakes are small enough that the finished coating or plastic part shows a uniform metallic sheen rather than a glittery or flake-patterned surface. This makes KT-AC818 suitable for applications where a refined, furniture-grade or automotive-trim appearance is the goal.

Available Series & Mesh Options

KT-AC818 is one configuration within the broader Gold Bronze Colors table. If you need a coarser flake for more pronounced metal texture or a finer powder for printing inks, related models include:

For buyers sourcing bronze powder bulk across multiple color tones, the AC series offers a standard palette. Pure copper (KT-PC800), red copper (KT-RC800 / KT-RC1000), and bronze (KT-BR800) are also available in similar fine mesh grades.

Technical Characteristics

Hiding Power and Loading

KT-AC818 delivers excellent opacity. At typical loadings of 3–8%, the pigment fully covers the substrate with no show-through. This is one of the key advantages of metal-based pigments over pearl or interference pigments, which often require higher loadings or dark base coats to achieve full color development.

Heat Resistance

As a metal-based powder, KT-AC818 is heat-stable and does not undergo thermal degradation in the way that some organic pigments or coated pearl pigments might. For plastics applications, it is suitable in PVC and PE compounds where processing temperatures are moderate. One thing to note: very high extrusion temperatures or prolonged heat exposure in reactive resin systems can lead to surface oxidation of the copper-zinc alloy, which may dull the metallic appearance. In practice, we see good results in typical injection molding and PVC calendaring operations.

Chemical Resistance and pH Sensitivity

Bronze powders have limited chemical resistance compared to inert pigments like titanium dioxide or iron oxide. KT-AC818 may tarnish in acidic or alkaline environments. Avoid formulations with pH below 6 or above 9. In coatings, this means careful selection of resins, solvents, and additives — particularly in water-based systems where pH control and protective surface treatment are critical. The AC series is engineered for compatibility with water-based formulations when proper dispersion and stabilization protocols are followed.

Electrical Conductivity

As a genuine metallic powder, KT-AC818 is electrically conductive. This makes it unsuitable for applications where electrical insulation is required, but it can be useful in specialized coatings where some degree of conductivity is acceptable or even desirable (e.g., static-dissipative flooring, grounding coatings).

Application Guide

Coatings

KT-AC818 is widely used in decorative coatings for picture frames, furniture trim, hardware finishes, and architectural accents. The cyan gold tone works well in applications where a cooler, less brassy metallic is preferred — for example, in contemporary furniture or fixtures where the design calls for a silvery-gold rather than a warm antique gold.

In water-based coating systems, dispersion and stabilization are key. We recommend low-shear mixing to avoid deforming the metal flakes. High-speed dispersers with Cowles blades are acceptable, but avoid ball mills and high-intensity mixers that can flatten or damage the particles. A protective resin or surfactant package that encapsulates the bronze flakes will help prevent oxidation and tarnishing during storage and application.

Plastics

For plastics, KT-AC818 is compounded into masterbatch for injection molding or extrusion of decorative items. Typical substrates include PVC and PE, where processing temperatures are moderate and the risk of thermal degradation of the bronze flakes is low. Common products include cosmetic packaging components, decorative housings, toys, and promotional items.

One consideration: because bronze powder is electrically conductive, it should not be used in plastic parts that come into contact with electronic components unless electrical isolation is ensured by design.

Printing Inks

At 800 mesh, KT-AC818 sits at the boundary between coating-grade and ink-grade fineness. For smooth, fine coatings and some printing ink applications (packaging, labels, gift wrap, greeting cards), this particle size works well. For very fine security printing or offset inks, formulators may prefer 1200 or 1500 mesh grades. That said, 800 mesh is a practical choice for flexographic and gravure inks where a balance between cost and finish quality is required.

Not for Cosmetics

Metal pigments like KT-AC818 are not cosmetic-grade and must not be used in personal care products. For cosmetic applications requiring gold or bronze effects, refer to our cosmetic-grade pearl pigment lines (KT-500 series), which are formulated and tested for skin contact.

Formulation & Processing

From our experience supporting coating and plastic customers, successful use of bronze powders depends on three things: gentle dispersion, pH control, and moisture protection.

• Dispersion: Use low-shear mixing. High-speed dispersers are fine, but avoid equipment that applies excessive mechanical stress to the flakes.
• pH control: Keep formulations within pH 6–9. Outside this range, the copper-zinc alloy is prone to tarnishing.
• Moisture protection: Bronze powders react with water over time. In water-based systems, use a protective resin or surfactant package. In storage, keep the powder in sealed containers in dry conditions.
• Loading rate: Start at 3–5% and adjust upward to 8% if deeper color or improved hiding is needed. Higher loadings may affect rheology and drying in coatings, or melt flow in plastics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 800 mesh and 200 mesh bronze powder?

800 mesh bronze powder has finer particles that produce a smooth, uniform metallic finish with no visible flake texture. 200 mesh has larger flakes that create a coarser, more textured appearance. For furniture-grade coatings or smooth plastics, 800 mesh is the better choice. For rustic or industrial finishes where a flake pattern is desirable, 200 mesh is more appropriate.

Can KT-AC818 be used in water-based coatings?

Yes. KT-AC818 is part of the AC series, which is formulated for compatibility with water-based systems. However, bronze powder reacts with water, so a protective resin or surfactant package that encapsulates the metal flakes is required. Maintain pH between 6 and 9, and use low-shear dispersion to avoid damaging the flakes. With proper formulation, KT-AC818 performs well in water-based decorative coatings.

What is the typical loading rate for KT-AC818 in plastic compounds?

Typical loading is 3–8% by weight in PVC or PE compounds. At 3%, you get good color and metallic reflection; at 8%, you achieve maximum hiding and color intensity. Higher loadings may affect melt flow and processing behavior, so testing is recommended when optimizing for a specific part design or molding process.

Is KT-AC818 suitable for outdoor applications?

Bronze powders have limited weatherability. In outdoor coatings, UV exposure and moisture can cause tarnishing and color shift over time. For long-term outdoor durability, consider topcoating with a clear UV-resistant layer or using a more stable pigment system. KT-AC818 is best suited for indoor decorative applications or outdoor products with protective overcoats.

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