Liquid Color for Plastics

Liquid Colorants have been around for many decades as an alternative coloring method to solid masterbatch for plastics. The debate continues from colorant producers and consumers as to which method is the best, and Penn Color is one of a very few color companies that produces both solid and liquid colorants.

Liquid Colorant VS Solid Colorant
Actually, there is no one best method for coloring plastic polymers, and the decision normally depends on a number of factors. We’ve researched the topic in great detail, and have created a liquid color vs. solid color guide to help you decide which is best for you.

For opaque plastic parts, solid color is generally the most effective colorant option. However, for transparent or translucent parts, liquid colorants can be used effectively when any of these conditions are present:

• Liquid colorants for plastics can be dosed very accurately at small amounts, making it a viable choice in some transparent applications.
• For very small volume applications (orders of 50kgs or less), liquid color can have a cost advantage because the batch is produced directly in the shipping container, so there is no compounding equipment to clean.
• Liquid color blends into the polymer flow quickly, so if the plastic processing equipment is older with reduced mixing, then liquid color may eliminate color streaks and swirls.

Our experienced sales and technical team can walk you through the decision process. If a liquid colorant is the best answer, be assured that Penn Color’s liquid products will go through the same controlled production process and rigorous QC testing that our solid color concentrates do. Either way, you’ll be receiving the highest quality product available in the industry today.