- 1 May 2008 -
Pearlescent effects offer enhanced stabilization

Ciba Specialty Chemicals has introduced a new range of pearlescent effects. Ciba® XYMARA™ XPS pearlescent effects are claimed to have anti-yellowing stabilizing properties, which enhance the appearance and prolong the life of the plastic. The company adds that XYMARA™ XPS are suitable for a broad range of goods, including cosmetics bottles, jars, containers and many other functional and decorative items. The first two products in the range are Ciba® XYMARA™ Silver Pearl XPS19, which gives a white satin lustre, and Ciba® XYMARA™ Silver Pearl XPS23, which combines the satin sheen with a discreet glitter. XYMARA™ XPS products can be used together with other effects and colours to produce individual and exclusive designs.

According to the company, conventional mica-based pearl pigments tend to cause yellowing of plastic following exposure to light. Ciba says that it has now developed a surface treatment that stabilizes pearlescent pigments and inhibits yellowing, adding to the appeal of numerous items and extending their lifetime.

Ciba Specialty Chemicals; www.xymara.com