Pigment
Pigments (Latin pigmentum, “color”, “make-up”) are inorganic or organic, colorful or achromatic colorants that (in contrast to dyes) are (practically) insoluble in the application medium. They can either absorb light for photosynthesis or reflect it, which we see as color.
Pigments are often used to produce colors, as they make it possible to create the desired color spectrum. They are used in many areas, such as cosmetics, food, art, textiles, printing inks or the adhesive industry.
The choice of the right pigment depends on various factors, such as the type of application, the desired color and the stability against environmental influences. Pigments can be produced synthetically or obtained from natural sources. Natural pigments such as ochre or iron oxide are obtained from natural minerals and are often less expensive than synthetic pigments.
