What Is Thermochromic Masterbatch?
Thermochromic masterbatch is a concentrated pellet form of thermochromic pigment, engineered for use in plastic manufacturing. Manufacturers add the pellets directly into a plastic resin during molding or extrusion, so the finished product changes color in response to temperature without any extra coating or printing step. The pigment inside the pellet is built from encapsulated Leuco Dyes, the same reversible thermochromic technology SpotSee uses across its temperature monitoring products.
How Does Thermochromic Pigment Work?
Thermochromic pigment works through microencapsulated Leuco Dye crystals that shift structure as temperature changes. Below a set activation point, the crystal structure reflects light and shows color. As temperature rises past that point, the structure changes and the pigment turns colorless. When the material cools back down, the crystal structure reverts and the color reappears. This reaction happens over a narrow band, typically a 5°F (2.8°C) window, which is why thermochromic masterbatch can be engineered to activate at a precise, repeatable temperature.
Thermochromic Masterbatch Applications
Thermochromic pigment in masterbatch form is used to build color change directly into molded plastic products. Common applications include:
- Color changing cups, mugs, spoons, bowls and stirrers that create consumer engagement with reusable plastics
- Promotional and novelty items where the color shift is the product feature
- Temperature indicator components molded into packaging or single-use products
- Branded product lines that use color change as a visible quality or freshness cue
Specs
Colors: Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Bright Green, Blue, Purple, Magenta, Black, Turquoise and Vermillion
Temperature range: -10°C to 69°C (14°F to 156°F)
Compatible plastics: PP, PE, HDPE, LDPE, PVC, EVA, PS and SAN
Blending Effects
Color changing effects can be varied by blending thermochromic masterbatch with other translucent or opaque masterbatches, allowing for custom colors and effects at both the “before” and “after” activation temperature. LCR Hallcrest masterbatch is supplied in concentrate form and is best suited for use in polyolefins. All direct food contact applications should be independently verified by a third party testing house.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is thermochromic pigment reversible?
Yes. The Leuco Dye pigment used in thermochromic masterbatch is reversible, meaning it changes color with rising temperature and returns to its original color as it cools, cycling repeatedly over the product’s lifespan.
What is the difference between thermochromic pigment and thermochromic masterbatch?
Thermochromic pigment is the raw color changing material. Thermochromic masterbatch is that pigment concentrated into plastic pellets so it can be molded directly into a finished plastic product.
What plastics work best with thermochromic pigment?
Thermochromic masterbatch performs best in PP, PE, HDPE, LDPE, PVC, EVA, PS and SAN, and is generally not recommended for high heat processing plastics that exceed the pigment’s stable temperature range.
Can thermochromic pigment be used for food contact products?
It can, but all direct food contact applications should be independently tested and verified by a third party testing house before use.
