(lithopone for coating)
Lithopone, a composite pigment comprising barium sulfate and zinc sulfide, has re-emerged as a cost-effective alternative to titanium dioxide (TiO₂) in coating formulations. With rising demand for sustainable solutions in water-based coatings, architecture emulsions, and powder coatings, manufacturers are revisiting lithopone’s unique properties. Unlike rutile titanium dioxide R698, which dominates high-end applications, lithopone offers superior dispersion stability and reduced binder consumption, making it ideal for budget-sensitive projects without compromising opacity.
Lithopone’s refractive index (1.84) closely rivals TiO₂ (2.73), ensuring adequate hiding power at lower concentrations. Key benefits include:
Parameter | Lithopone (Sulfate Process) | Rutile TiO₂ R698 |
---|---|---|
Opacity (ISO 2814) | 92% | 98% |
Production Cost (USD/ton) | 1,200 | 2,800 |
pH Stability Range | 4–11 | 3–12 |
Carbon Footprint (kg CO₂/ton) | 450 | 1,100 |
Leading lithopone factories now offer application-specific grades:
A European coatings manufacturer achieved 15% raw material savings by replacing 30% TiO₂ with lithopone in waterborne interior wall coatings. The reformulated product maintained 90% contrast ratio while reducing VOC emissions by 12%. In another project, a Chinese industrial coatings plant reported a 23% increase in production throughput due to lithopone’s faster dispersion kinetics versus TiO₂ R698.
Lifecycle analysis reveals lithopone’s environmental edge:
Despite TiO₂’s dominance in premium segments, lithopone secures its niche through adaptability and economic viability. For projects prioritizing cost-per-performance ratios in architecture emulsions or paper coatings, lithopone delivers comparable technical outcomes at 40–50% lower pigment costs. As coating formulators balance sustainability mandates with profit margins, this zinc sulfide-based pigment continues to offer compelling value across industrial and decorative applications.
(lithopone for coating)
A: Lithopone offers excellent dispersion, opacity, and cost-effectiveness in coatings. It is often used as a partial replacement for titanium dioxide to reduce production costs while maintaining performance in architectural and industrial coatings.
A: Rutile Titanium Dioxide R698 provides superior weather resistance, brightness, and UV stability. Its sulfate process production ensures compatibility with waterborne coatings, making it ideal for interior wall paints and industrial applications.
A: Yes, Lithopone is suitable for powder coatings due to its thermal stability and fine particle size. It enhances opacity and surface finish in architectural and industrial powder coating formulations.
A: Rutile Titanium Dioxide improves paper whiteness, gloss, and printability. Its high refractive index and durability make it a preferred choice for coatings in the papermaking industry.
A: Yes, Lithopone is used in ink production for its smooth texture and opacity. It works well in both water-based and solvent-based ink systems, providing consistent color quality and coverage.