Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are ColorShift pigments?
ColorShift is a term used to describe our revolutionary ChromaFlair light interference pigments and our SpectraFlair light diffractive pigments. Both are based upon unique optical thin film technology from JDSU.
2. How do ChromaFlair and SpectraFlair pigments differ?
ChromaFlair pigments are unique, multi-layer pigment flakes that give paints, coatings, plastics, textiles, and packaging the ability to literally change color when viewed from different angles. ChromaFlair light interference pigments provide outstanding opacity and color saturation (chromaticity) with dramatic and vivid color shift with angle.
Unlike the color shifting effects of ChromaFlair light interference pigments that literally change color when viewed from different angles, SpectraFlair light diffractive pigments add a multicolored, diffractive appearance that creates the illusion of movement and makes the product appear to be three-dimensional. SpectraFlair pigments change from a typical metallic paint appearance in low illumination, to vivid, multi-rainbow paints in direct bright light.
Due to their high flake-diameter-to-thickness ratio, ChromaFlair and SpectraFlair pigments have good leafing properties, and consequently create a high level of specular reflection.
3. How many colors are there? Can I get a color chart of your colors?
ChromaFlair pigment comes in seven standard colors. Manufacturers can mix ChromaFlair pigment with conventional pigments, making possible an almost unlimited spectrum of colors. Visit the ChromaFlair product page for more detailed information.
SpectraFlair 1500 series and Bright Silver pigment are available only in silver. Visit the SpectraFlair product literature section for more detailed information.
Designers and manufacturers may request a color fan deck by contacting JDSU:
Tel 707-525-7007
Fax 707-525-7537
4. Where can I get more information?
All available documentation is available in the ChromaFlair and SpectraFlair product literature sections.
5. How can I get a pigment sample?
ColorShift pigments are only sold to commercial businesses and not to end consumers. Pigment samples are provided to manufacturers under a "Confidential Sampling Agreement". If you are a manufacturer and would like to receive samples, please contact JDSU.
6. Can ColorShift pigments be used for brand protection and anti-counterfeiting?
Yes. If your product needs are more specific to brand protection and anti-counterfeiting solutions, then our SecureShift technology will offer you unparalleled options in creating an effective product security program, which combines secure authentication, flexible aesthetics, and ease of application for a wide range of products.
7. Where can I buy automotive ColorShift paints?
Automotive refinish paint with ColorShift pigments is available worldwide from many major manufacturers of paint, who incorporate these pigments into paints available to the consumer through paint distributors and retail outlets.
8. Can I mix my own colors using your pigments?
JDSU does not sell ColorShift pigments directly to consumers. However, it is possible to blend colors available from existing paint brand lines to create your own unique colors. Please consult with your local paint distributor for guidelines.
9. How durable are ColorShift pigments?
ColorShift pigments are made from inorganic colorless materials. Color is created by the interaction with the pigment flakes. Therefore, there is nothing in the pigments themselves that will fade or discolor. They have excellent UV durability.
10. Do new car manufacturers offer vehicles with the ColorShift effect?
Major automotive companies around the world have recognized the value and status that our decorative pigments bring to their products-for concept and production vehicles, from sport cars to luxury sedans.
Many successful OEM programs have been launched throughout the world using ChromaFlair and SpectraFlair pigments. For example, the Scion xB, Nissan 350Z, Buick Lucerne, and a variety of Cadillac models have all been produced with ChromaFlair pigment. SpectraFlair pigment has been used to highlight concept vehicles for the LA, NY and Detroit auto shows, as well as custom show cars at SEMA.
11. Can paints incorporating SpectraFlair pigment be repaired?
ColorShift pigments are similar to other flake pigments like aluminum and mica. Paints that contain ColorShift pigment may be repaired using the same techniques as those used for other flake pigments.
12. What are some application characteristics of ColorShift pigments?
ColorShift pigments are often referred to as "stir in" and have been found to be compatible in a wide range of standard formulations. They can be blended with aluminum, carbon black, and other inorganic and organic pigments to create a range of unique colors. ColorShift pigments can be used in a variety of paints, plastics, and textiles. Visit the ChromaFlair and SpectraFlair product literature sections for more information.
13. How are ColorShift pigments supplied?
ChromaFlair pigment is supplied in a wetted form. SpectraFlair 1500 series and Bright Silver pigment are supplied in dry form.
14. How much ColorShift pigment is needed to produce the colorshift effect?
Amounts will vary depending on the addition of other conventional pigments. Generally 2 to 6% ColorShift pigment, based on total formula weight, is required to produce a dramatic color effect. Detailed information on this topic is available in ChromaFlair and SpectraFlair product documentation.
15. What is the average particle size of ColorShift pigments?
The average particle size of ChromaFlair pigment is 20 microns. SpectraFlair 1500 Series pigment is available in three particle size grades: 14 microns, 20 microns and 35 microns. The average particle size of SpectraFlair Bright Silver pigment is 20 microns.
16. How is the color of ColorShift pigments measured?
Detailed information on this topic is available in the ChromaFlair and SpectraFlair product literature sections.
17. How are ColorShift pigments safely used and stored?
Information concerning the safe handling of ChromaFlair and SpectraFlair pigments is covered extensively in their respective Material Safety Data Sheets located in the ChromaFlair and SpectraFlair product literature sections.
18. What is the manufacturing quality assurance process at JDSU?
The quality control process includes measuring the size, color, and durability of the pigment. Statistical quality control techniques are applied to all processes. Additional quality assurance information is available in the ChromaFlair and SpectraFlair product literature sections.
