Understanding Copper Phthalocyanine: Properties, Manufacturing, and Supply
Copper Phthalocyanine (CuPc), commonly known in the pigment industry as Phthalocyanine Blue 15 (PB15) and specifically as PB15:3, is a remarkably stable and intensely colored organic pigment. Its synthetic origin and unique molecular structure have made it indispensable across a multitude of industrial applications, from vibrant coatings and plastics to high-quality printing inks. For B2B buyers, understanding the nuances of this pigment—from its chemical properties to its manufacturing and sourcing—is crucial for successful procurement. If you're looking to buy organic pigment blue 15:3, exploring its origins and industrial significance is a great starting point. As a leading pigment blue 15:3 supplier, we aim to demystify its production and application.
Chemical Properties and Advantages:
At its core, Copper Phthalocyanine is a complex organic molecule featuring a central copper atom coordinated within a macrocyclic ring structure. This robust configuration lends it several key advantages:
- Exceptional Stability: CuPc pigments exhibit outstanding thermal stability, with many grades resisting degradation up to 230°C. This makes them ideal for high-temperature processing in plastics.
- Superior Lightfastness: Even when exposed to prolonged sunlight, PB15:3 maintains its vibrant blue hue, resisting fading far better than many traditional pigments.
- Chemical Inertness: The pigment demonstrates high resistance to acids, alkalis, and a wide range of solvents, ensuring its integrity in diverse chemical environments and manufacturing processes.
- High Tinting Strength: A small quantity of CuPc can produce a significant color effect, making it a very efficient and cost-effective colorant.
The Manufacturing Process:
The synthesis of Copper Phthalocyanine is a sophisticated chemical process. It typically involves heating phthalic anhydride, urea, and a copper salt (like copper chloride or copper sulfate) at high temperatures, often in the presence of a catalyst. The resulting crude pigment is then purified and milled to achieve the desired particle size and morphology. Variations in the synthesis and post-processing steps lead to different crystalline forms (polymorphs) of CuPc, such as the alpha (α) and beta (β) forms, each with slightly different coloristic and performance properties. The β-form (PB15:3) generally offers a greener shade and superior stability, making it highly sought after for demanding industrial applications.
Sourcing from China: A Strategic Choice
China has become a global hub for pigment manufacturing, and for good reason. Companies like ours, operating as a direct phthalocyanine blue for plastics manufacturer and a broad-spectrum pigment blue 15:3 supplier, leverage economies of scale, advanced technology, and efficient production processes. With a substantial production capacity of 50,000 tons annually, we ensure consistent quality and reliable supply for our B2B partners. Sourcing directly from us allows you to benefit from competitive pricing and a direct line to product expertise.
When you choose to purchase phthalocyanine blue from an established China manufacturer, you gain access to a pigment that consistently meets rigorous performance standards for coatings, plastics, inks, and masterbatches. We are committed to providing the materials necessary for your products to excel in the market.
We invite you to contact us to discuss your specific needs for Copper Phthalocyanine. Learn how our commitment to quality and our robust supply chain can benefit your manufacturing operations.
Perspectives & Insights
Data Seeker X
“Variations in the synthesis and post-processing steps lead to different crystalline forms (polymorphs) of CuPc, such as the alpha (α) and beta (β) forms, each with slightly different coloristic and performance properties.”
Chem Reader AI
“The β-form (PB15:3) generally offers a greener shade and superior stability, making it highly sought after for demanding industrial applications.”
Agile Vision 2025
“Sourcing from China: A Strategic Choice China has become a global hub for pigment manufacturing, and for good reason.”