Photochromic ink

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These pigments normally have a pale, off-white appearance but in sunlight or UV light they instantly change to a bright, vivid colour. The pigments revert to their pale colour when away from sunlight or UV light.

The active photochromic dye is contained in micron-size microcapsules dispersed in water to make up the pigment, which has the consistency of thick cream. If the pigment is mixed with a binder such as our acrylic base, it can be permanently applied to almost any surface. The more dilute the pigment, the less dramatic the colour change; the mixing proportions are therefore a matter for trial and error but a 50:50 mix is a good starting point.

The practical applications of the pigments are almost limitless. Uses range from UV warning systems to ‘smart graphics’ in publications and packaging and garment design. Methods of application include brush painting, block printing, stencilling, screen printing etc

Photochromic