Colour correction refers to the process of neutralizing the inherent yellowish tint in materials like plastics by adding low concentrations of Ultramarine Blue or Violet pigments. Even highly effective plastic whiteners, such as titanium dioxide, can exhibit slight yellow undertones. By incorporating trace amounts of ultramarine pigments, this yellowness can be counteracted, resulting in a neutral or ‘whiter than white’ appearance.
Benefits of Ultramarine Pigments in Colour Correction:
· Enhanced white tones
· Superior performance under natural and artificial light
· Availability of subtle tint variations
· Precise control over shading
Superior Performance Under Natural and Artificial Light
Unlike optical brightening agents, ultramarine pigments do not fluoresce, leading to improved performance in both daylight and artificial lighting. They also offer excellent lightfastness, even at minimal concentrations.
Variety of Subtle Tints
Colour correction is subjective and varies with individual aesthetic preferences. Ultramarine Blue imparts a ‘cold’ white tone, while ultramarine violet pigments create ‘warmer’ hues. Often, a combination of blue and violet pigments is used to achieve the desired effect.
Precise Shade Control
The required pigment concentration for achieving the desired colour correction depends on the initial level of yellowness in the material. Typically, pigment levels do not exceed 0.1%, and are often much lower. The moderate colour strength of ultramarine allows for precise adjustments at these low concentrations.