Paint pigments give paint its colour and hiding power. Titanium dioxide makes white and opacity, iron oxide gives durable reds, yellows and browns, and organic pigments give bright shades. Here you will find the main pigment groups and how to choose them for interior and exterior paint.
Colour pigments for paint are usually the second largest cost after the binder, so a clear choice saves money.
We help you choose grades and suppliers, set simple receiving checks and keep your formula stable from lot to lot. Choosing grades and suppliers for paint pigments is part of the sourcing guidance given by IPCS (Indian Paints Consulting Service).
Paint Pigments overview
Pigment is a fine powder that does not dissolve. It is spread through the paint, where it scatters light to hide the surface and adds colour. Titanium dioxide has a very high refractive index of about 2.73, which is why a little of it hides a lot. Its density is about 4 g per cubic centimetre, so it is a large part of the cost of a paint.
Titanium dioxide for paint comes mainly as rutile and anatase. Rutile is preferred because it scatters light more efficiently and is more stable and durable.
Types of paint pigments used in paint formulations
| Type | What it does | Where it fits |
|---|---|---|
| Titanium dioxide, rutile | Strong white and hiding, durable | Exterior and premium interior paint |
| Titanium dioxide, anatase | White with lower durability | Interior and economy paint |
| Iron oxide pigment | Stable reds, yellows, browns and blacks | Exterior colour, cement paint and primers |
| Organic colour pigments | Bright, clean shades | Decorative colours and tinting bases |
| Anti-corrosive pigments | Protect metal from rust | Metal primers |
Applications of Paint Pigments
Choose pigments by the product and the place it will be used.
Choosing paint pigments for a paint formulation
What to compare
- Types of pigments used in paint: match the pigment to interior or exterior use
- Rutile vs anatase titanium dioxide for paint: rutile for durability
- Pigments for exterior paint: choose light-fast, weather-stable grades
- Particle size and surface treatment
- Cost per unit of hiding
Quality checks on receipt
- Colour and tint strength against the approved sample
- Oil absorption
- Moisture and fineness
- Particle size or residue on sieve
Storage and handling
Keep pigments dry in sealed bags, away from moisture and strong smells. Reseal opened bags and use first in, first out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the types of pigments used in paint?
White pigment such as titanium dioxide, inorganic colour pigments such as iron oxide, organic colour pigments and anti-corrosive pigments for metal primers.
What is rutile vs anatase titanium dioxide for paint?
Both are forms of TiO2. Rutile scatters light more efficiently and is more stable and durable, so it is preferred. Anatase is used in lower-cost interior products.
Which pigments for exterior paint?
Rutile titanium dioxide for white and iron oxide or other light-fast pigments for colour.
Why is titanium dioxide expensive?
It is dense and is used at a significant level, so it is a large share of the cost of white paint.
What is iron oxide pigment used for?
It gives stable red, yellow, brown and black shades in exterior colours, cement paint and primers.
How do I test a new pigment?
Compare colour, tint strength and fineness with the approved sample before using it in a batch.
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