Pigment types are categorized in several ways depending on their application and chemical composition. Let's explore some key classifications:
By Chemical Composition:
- Organic Pigments: These pigments are carbon-based and offer vibrant, bright colors. They are frequently used when intense color is needed. [Source: Meghmani Global, Wikipedia]
- Inorganic Pigments: These pigments are derived from minerals and offer properties like opacity and the ability to lighten other colors. White opaque pigments fall under this category. [Source: Meghmani Global]
- Metallic Pigments: These pigments use metallic components to create unique visual effects. [Source: Meghmani Global]
- Industrial Pigments: This category encompasses a broad range of pigments used in various industrial applications. [Source: Meghmani Global]
By Application and Function:
- Pigments for Paints, Coatings & Inks: This is a vast category including organic, inorganic, functional, special effect, and carbon black pigments, each serving a specific purpose in these applications. [Source: SpecialChem]
- Biological Pigments: These pigments are found in living organisms, such as plants and animals. Examples include melanin in human skin and hair, influencing hair and skin color. [Source: NCBI PMC, Byjus, MedlinePlus Genetics] Different types of melanin, like eumelanin (black/brown) and pheomelanin (yellow/red), determine the specific shade. [Source: NCBI PubMed] Phycocyanin, a pigment found in certain marine organisms, is another example. [Source: doi.org]
By User Account Type (in Pigment software):
The Pigment software itself has different user account types with varying permissions. These are not pigment types in the chemical sense, but rather user roles within a specific application. [Source: Pigment Community]
In summary, the term "pigment type" is broad and requires context. The classification depends on the area of application – whether it's the chemical composition, the functional use, or even the user permissions in a software program.
