Paints and coatings, Plastics

Green is more than a color

Alex Capuz

Director, Global Product Management, Color Solutions

25 October 2023

4 mins

Paints and coatings, Plastics

Green is more than a color

Alex Capuz

Director, Global Product Management, Color Solutions

25th October 2023

4 mins

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Green – a color associated with life, renewal and growth – has an intrinsic connection to the natural world that has captivated artists, designers and enthusiasts for centuries. Its most universal interpretation conjures images of nature, a vibrant symbol of the environmental movement and healthy living. To this day, strong associations with green remain rooted deep in our DNA. The word ‘green’ itself is an abbreviation for many concepts, from living a ‘green’ healthy way of life or a symbol of the ‘green’ environmental movement. This mixture of blue and yellow can be seen everywhere and in countless shades, making it the most visible hue to the human eye.

In the pigment world, chrome oxide green is one of the most stable and versatile green hues woven into countless everyday items. This inorganic pigment is characterized by its stunning, opaque and rich green color. It is a multifaceted pigment that mirrors the beauty of the natural world, while providing additional performance advantages and camouflage properties.

A durable pigment that delivers

The shift toward more sustainable automotive and industrial coatings, plastics and building materials has increased the demand for inorganic pigments that provide a greater benefit than the simple coloration of a formulation. Inorganic pigments like chrome oxide green also impact physical properties of the paint or coating during application and throughout the product lifecycle. They are more stable against harsh environmental and chemical conditions, while offering lower production costs.

Color stability: Chrome oxide green is celebrated for its exceptional color stability. It is highly resistant to light and temperature changes, making it an ideal choice for outdoor applications and long-lasting artistic creations.
Opacity: This pigment is renowned for its impressive opacity. It can easily cover underlying surfaces, making it a popular choice in the world of paint, ceramics and plastics.
Chemical resistance: Chrome oxide green boasts improved chemical resistance. It can withstand exposure to acids and alkalis, ensuring its longevity in various environments.
Durability: Due to its durability and resistance to fading, it is commonly used in applications where colorfastness is essential.

The endless versatility of chrome oxide green

Chrome oxide green, with its remarkable color stability, opacity and versatility, continues to be a favorite in various industries, including:

Paints and coatings: Chrome oxide green’s color stability and opacity make it ideal for artists and industrial applications alike.
Plastics: The plastic industry uses this pigment for coloring a range of products, from toys and household items to automotive parts.
Ceramics: Used to produce various shades of green in pottery and decorative items, chrome oxide green is preferred for its ability to withstand high firing temperatures.
Glass: Chrome oxide green is utilized in glass manufacturing to produce distinctive green hues in glassware and stained glass.
Art: Many artists prefer chrome oxide green for its vivid, long-lasting color in oil and watercolor paints and is often used for landscapes, foliage and other green elements in paintings.

Your reliable pigments partner for chrome oxide green and beyond

Customers today have endless color options, and Vibrantz helps expand what’s possible with our expansive pigment portfolio. Our technical expertise, coupled with the world’s most extensive pigment offering, gives customers peace of mind and design freedom for any project.

For more than 40 years, Vibrantz has provided various markets with a reliable suite of chrome oxide green pigments offering an olive-green shade that is opaque to visible light with high near-infrared (NIR) reflectance. Properties include ease of dispersion with excellent dimensional stability, resulting in no warping or shrinkage.

Vibrantz’s chrome oxide green (PG17) recommended pigments include:

Nubicrom 02 – Highly micronized/high dispersibility chrome oxide green with a yellowish shade
SMM Series – Micronized chrome oxide greens
S Series – Basic chrome oxide green for general applications

Vibrantz is the leading global supplier with the largest portfolio of inorganic pigments and a strong player in specialized organics. the largest portfolio of inorganic pigments and a strong player in specialized Organics Our high-performing inorganic color pigments are custom formulations that outperform alternative technologies in opacity, ease of dispersion, high heat fastness and chemical resistance with no bleeding or pigment migration. Their overall durability and resistance to harsh environmental conditions make our inorganic pigments ideal for any demanding application.

Contact us to learn more about our expanded portfolio of dry pigments and liquid colorants available worldwide.

Learn more

Alex Capuz

Director, Global Product Management, Color Solutions

Alex Capuz

Director, Global Product Management, Color Solutions

Capuz has more than 25 years of commercial, product management and strategic marketing experience in the pigments, dispersions and surfactants. Capuz began his career in the surfactants industry where he held various technical sales, product management and marketing positions at Albright & Wilson and Huntsman. In 2003, he transitioned to the colorant industry and joined Nubiola as the global product manager for ultramarines, and later the global marketing manager. Since Ferro acquired Nubiola, he has held various global marketing and product management roles in the U.S. and Spain. Capuz received his bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from IQS and master’s degree from ESADE in Barcelona.

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Enamels, Glass

Shaping a bright future

27 March 2024 3 mins

In 2023, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration reported the warmest year on record, and forecasts indicate that 2024 will follow this trend. Despite growing climate concerns, there is optimism surrounding efforts to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Global renewable energy capacity surged by nearly 50% last year, with solar photovoltaic (PV) implementation leading the charge, particularly in China.

In an effort to combat rising GHG emissions that result in environmental challenges like heat waves, heavy rainfall and coastal flooding, societies and governments are increasingly investing in renewable energy and alternative energy infrastructure. This momentum has sparked innovation in the glass coatings industry, aimed at creating durable solar panels, greener buildings and sustainable transportation solutions. For over 100 years, Vibrantz has supplied the consumer and industrial manufacturing markets with sustainable solutions for glass coatings.

Vibrantz engineers coatings to withstand the elements

The expansion of the alternative energy market has prompted efforts to enhance the efficiency and durability of glass. Vibrantz engineers enamel coatings and ceramic digital inks for glass, offering an array of functional benefits like impact-protectant surfaces, non-stick properties and near-invisible coating to enhance durability while allowing light transfer.

Some of our key products include:

99% solar white enamel for screen printing onto solar glass
Digital ceramic inkjet printing inks for building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV)
Traditional and digital ceramic inks that offer chemical and weather resistance, ultra-violet (UV) stability and scratch protection for architectural and construction glass
Enamels and digital inks with enhanced durability and UV protection for transportation and automotive glass

The charge toward solar

As the demand for solar panels continues to rise, they are being incorporated into a wide range of structures beyond traditional rooftops including parking garages, sports facilities and agricultural facilities. To meet this growing need, Vibrantz provides specialized inks that enhance structural strength, offer UV protection, ensure weather resistance and more.

For example, our 99% solar white enamel is screen printed onto laminated glass, improving panel battery life and power-generating efficiency. To further bolster the panel, solar white enamel increases reflectivity and acid resistance, while reducing enamel breakdown. This allows the battery to collect more sunlight and enhances overall performance.

Eco-awareness by solar can also be achieved alongside aesthetic benefits. BIPV offers a middle ground facilitated by our digital ceramic inks, utilizing images of traditional roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles or terra cotta, printed onto solar modules and enables high light transmittance. Additionally, our inks replicate the appearance of wall claddings by digitally printing images of materials like brick or cedar onto solar glass.

“As global leaders with over a century of experience in glass coatings, we are determined to provide the best service and solutions for our customers, especially through innovations in product performance.”
– Jasper Li, Porcelain Glass Coatings Business Manager, China

Your comprehensive partner in glass coatings

Contact our team of experts to learn more about our expansive portfolio of world-class coatings and materials for solar applications, sustainable construction, transportation and automotive glasses. We work alongside our customers to solve today’s challenges and create a brighter future for future generations.

Electronics

Elevating your everyday with efficient home upgrades

27 March 2024 4 mins

Working to combat climate change is often associated with solutions like recycling plastic bottles, repurposing glass jars for food storage or reducing disposable utensil use. However, there exist additional and simple changes that each of us can make in our day to day at home, such as how we dry clothes, cook food or power our appliances. Approximately 20% of energy-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions come from heating, cooling and powering households in the United States.

Recognizing this, climate experts have diligently provided resources and education to help individuals make micro-level changes, such as electrifying stoves, using induction cooktops or producing more efficient consumer electronics. Government-backed organizations, administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the U.S. Department of Energy, for example, offer guidance on finding energy-efficient appliances and accessing government tax credits for greener purchases. Similarly, non-profit organizations worldwide exist to partner with families and businesses to provide simple and credible information that consumers can rely on to make well-informed climate-aligned decisions and receive incentives for home efficiencies and electrification.

The push toward electrification is gaining momentum globally as advanced economies around the world embrace the urgency of addressing climate change. Whether one rents an apartment, owns a home or lives in a recreational vehicle, upgrades to electronics and lifestyle adjustments can significantly contribute to solving the larger climate challenge. By adopting simple yet practical changes like using an electric kettle instead of a gas stove or upgrading to a more efficient water heater, individuals can reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy bills.

We play a vital role in powering electronics and appliances

Vibrantz offers premium heater on steel (HOS) paste systems that protect electronics by acting as insulators, preventing the conduction of electricity. High-quality paste systems result in greater product reliability and serve various functions including:

Electrical insulation of electronic or appliance heating elements such as wires or coils
Insulation of stainless or austenitic steel parts
Prevention of electrical hazards and short circuits
Additional layers of protection from external factors like dust, moisture and physical damage
Creation of conductive pathways for electrical currents to flow safely
Precise control over the amount of heat produced and accurate adjustment of temperature levels in the heating system

Our HOS paste systems make electronics and home appliances more efficient in an array of everyday products like electric tea kettles, milk frothers, tankless water heaters and coffee makers.

Vibrantz’s technologies in consumer appliances and electronics

Choosing efficient electronics and appliances is paramount to support renewable energy initiatives. Our HOS applications offer systems tailored to meet stringent requirements. Our expertise is evident in key aspects including:

Compatibility: We ensure that our systems integrate with specific substrates and the end product will be adaptable to diverse environments and harsh conditions and provide long-term performance.

Reliability: With over a century of experience, we leverage our expertise to offer superior-performing products that are trusted worldwide.

Versatility: Our solutions are customized to meet the unique requirements of appliances, consumer goods and industrial products.

Efficiency: Our paste systems are compact in size yet boast high power density.

Tailored electronics materials support

At Vibrantz, we are committed to responsible manufacturing and product management while supporting global goals to reduce GHG emissions. We understand that the shift toward electrification may seem overwhelming, and we provide world-class products that make getting there easier.

Contact our team to learn more about our customized electronic materials solutions and how we can help you plug into the electrification movement.

Building & Construction, Paints and coatings

Maximizing energy efficiency with cool colors

27 March 2024 3 mins

The use of air conditioning (AC) for residential and commercial use is increasingly common, especially in the world’s hotter regions, putting enormous strain on electricity. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), cooling is the fastest growing use of energy in buildings, with the global demand expected to triple by 2050, presenting significant challenges for energy sustainability, accessibility and affordability.

Architects, builders and urban planners seek eco-friendly solutions that address the escalating demand for cooling while mitigating the environmental impact of traditional approaches. Innovative technologies like near infrared (NIR) reflective pigments and dispersions, or “cool colors,” are increasingly utilized in building and construction design to significantly reduce the amount of heat absorbed by structures, lessening the reliance on AC systems.

Sustainable solutions for urban living

By mitigating the absorption of solar radiation in comparison with other pigments in same color space, these colors reduce the impact of the urban heat island effect, a phenomenon where urban areas experience higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas. The vast expanses of concrete, asphalt and other heat-absorbing dark surfaces prevalent in cities primarily cause this effect. This excess heat can lead to various issues, including increased energy consumption for cooling, elevated air pollution levels and discomfort for residents.

Incorporating cool colors into building exteriors and urban infrastructure can help create a more comfortable and healthier urban environment for residents. Additionally, cooler surfaces can help lower AC demands, decreasing greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy production. As cities grapple with rising temperatures and the challenges of climate change, integrating cool colors into urban landscapes is a simple yet impactful strategy to enhance sustainability and resilience.

Achieve cooler temperatures without compromising aesthetics or performance

Beyond energy efficiency, cool colors also improve the durability of exterior coatings in buildings, roofs, pavement and cement. Enhanced protection against thermal stress ensures building and construction materials maintain their aesthetic appeal for over time, reducing the need for frequent maintenance. This translates into cost savings and a longer life span for building exteriors and materials, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable building practices.

At the core of cool colors are NIR pigments and dispersions designed to reflect a higher percentage of sunlight compared to traditional coatings. This innovative approach to color science maximizes energy efficiency and empowers architects and designers with a wide range of design possibilities.

Enhance energy efficiency with Vibrantz’s cool colors

Vibrantz is a leading supplier of “cool colors” –– NIR reflective pigments and dispersions designed to help lower heat absorption of building exteriors to improve energy efficiency. Our cool colors are proven to:

Improve building efficiency by up to 20%
Reduce AC consumption, lowering energy bill costs
Increase the durability of exterior materials

In addition to exteriors, our cool colors are commonly used in coatings for roofs, walls, asphalt and cement materials. As primary contact points with sunlight and heat, these materials are critical for implementing energy-efficient solutions in urban environments with hotter climates.

Our team of color scientists offers technical support through formulation development, testing capabilities and customized energy savings estimation tools.

A multifaceted solution for a sustainable future

Cool colors cater to a more environmentally responsible building and construction industry and ushers in a future when energy-efficient buildings become the norm. The adoption of cool colors not only addresses the challenges posed by the increasing demand for cooling systems but also paves the way for a more sustainable future. Contact us to learn more about the impact cool colors can have on sustainable building practices.

Paints and coatings, Plastics

Green is more than a color

Paints and coatings, Plastics