Product description
Thermochromic pigments are microcapsules that lose their colour above a set temperature and regain it on cooling. Photochromic pigments are colourless indoors and colour up in sunlight.
Product range
| Code | Type | Options |
|---|---|---|
| SM-TC | Thermochromic microcapsules | Activation at 15, 22, 31 or 45 °C; black, blue, red, magenta, green, orange, yellow, violet |
| SM-PC | Photochromic pigments | Blue, purple, red, yellow, green |
Typical properties
| Property | Typical value | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Capsule size (SM-TC) | 3–5 µm | Microscopy |
| Activation temperature | Nominal ± 2 °C | Colour-change test |
| Light fastness | Limited: protect with a UV-absorbing overprint | Xenon exposure |
| Heat stability (plastics grades) | Declared per grade | Moulding trial |
Use
- Inks
- SM-TC 15–30 % in water-based or UV-compatible vehicles
- Plastics
- Via masterbatch, 1–5 %
- Cautions
- Avoid strong solvents such as ketones and aromatics, and high shear, which break the capsules
Supply and safety
Safety data per grade from the manufacturer, re-issued under the Flychem name.
Stage: in development.
Values are typical and do not form a specification. Each delivery is released against its certificate of analysis. Test the product under your own conditions before commercial use.
