Lithopone Pigment

What is lithopone?

Lithopone is a white pigment made from a combination of barium sulfate and zinc sulfide. It is valued for its bright whiteness and cost‑effectiveness, and has been used in industries such as plastics, rubber, and paper.

Lithopone provides good opacity and whiteness, though it is less durable under light exposure, so it is mainly used in applications where high weather resistance is not required.

What is the formula of lithopone?

Lithopone does not have a single chemical formula because it is a mixture rather than a pure compound. It is typically composed of barium sulfate (BaSO₄) and zinc sulfide (ZnS), with a common ratio of about 70% BaSO₄ and 30% ZnS.

What is the mixture of lithopone?

Lithopone is a white pigment composed of a mixture of barium sulfate (BaSO₄) and zinc sulfide (ZnS). The typical composition contains about 28–30% zinc sulfide and 68–70% barium sulfate, giving it good whiteness and opacity at a lower cost compared to other pigments.

What is lithopone used for?

Lithopone powder is mainly used as a white pigment and filler in plastics, rubber, and paper products. It provides good whiteness and opacity at a lower cost, making it suitable for applications where high durability or weather resistance is not required.

What is the best dispersing agent for TiO2?

There isn’t a single “best” dispersing agent—it depends on the system you’re working with. In coatings and plastics, common choices include polymeric dispersants and wetting agents that keep TiO₂ particles evenly spread and prevent clumping. Well‑known options are products like Borchi® Gen 1252 or DISPERBYK‑2080, which are designed to improve color strength, stability, and processing. The right pick usually depends on whether the formulation is water‑based, solvent‑based, or high‑solid.

What is the price of lithopone?

The price of lithopone varies depending on grade, region, and market conditions. In general, it is considered a cost‑effective white pigment, with prices lower than titanium dioxide. Typical market prices range from USD 1000 to 1,800 per metric ton, but actual costs may differ based on supplier and quality specifications.

What do you do with pigment powder?

Pigment powder is used to provide color, whiteness, and opacity. It is mixed with binders or resins to make products such as paints, plastics, rubber, paper, and printing inks, improving appearance and coverage at a lower cost.

Is Lithopone a substitute for white lead?

Yes. Lithopone was introduced in the late 19th century as a safer alternative to white lead. It provided good whiteness and opacity without the health risks of lead pigments.