Lithol Rubine

Updated: 2026-09-12

Overview

Lithol Rubine is a synthetic calcium salt pigment classified as a monoazo compound. First commercialized in the early 20th century, it belongs to the Lithol pigment family known for their bright red shades and cost-effectiveness. The pigment is manufactured through a diazotization and coupling process, resulting in a stable, insoluble colorant. As a standardized colorant (CI 15850:1), it is widely adopted in global industries due to its consistent hue and regulatory approvals. Its primary competitive advantage lies in its balance between performance and affordability compared to high-end pigments like quinacridones.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Lithol Rubine exhibits a bluish-red shade with excellent opacity and moderate oil absorption (45-55 g/100g). The pigment shows good resistance to alkalis and weak acids but degrades in strong acidic conditions. Its particle size typically ranges between 0.1-0.5 microns, contributing to smooth dispersion in most media. Thermogravimetric analysis indicates stability up to 180°C, making it suitable for plastics processing. In UV-Vis spectroscopy, it shows maximum absorption at 520-530 nm. The pigment's insolubility in water (<0.01 g/L) ensures minimal migration in aqueous applications.

Main Applications

The printing ink industry consumes approximately 60% of global Lithol Rubine production, particularly for flexible packaging and magazine printing. Its FDA compliance (21 CFR 74.3057) makes it ideal for food packaging inks. In plastics, it colors PVC, LDPE, and polystyrene for consumer goods. Other applications include industrial coatings where lightfastness requirements are moderate, and cosmetics such as lipsticks and nail polishes (regulated under EC 1223/2009). Recent developments include its use in security inks due to its identifiable spectral signature under UV light.

Safety and Storage

Classified as non-hazardous under GHS, Lithol Rubine requires standard pigment handling precautions. Workplace exposure limits for inhalable dust should not exceed 5 mg/m³ (8-hour TWA). Spills should be contained with absorbent materials and disposed as non-hazardous waste. Long-term storage may lead to moisture absorption; reseal opened containers with desiccants. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents. For international transport, it falls under UN 3077 (environmentally hazardous substance) when containing >0.1% organic solvents.

B2B Procurement Guide

Industrial buyers should specify technical parameters: color strength (vs. standard), resistivity (≥5000 Ω·cm for electronic applications), and heavy metal content (<50 ppm lead equivalent). Bulk shipments (500kg+ drums) typically offer 10-15% cost savings versus small packaging. Quality verification should include tests for rheology in end-use systems and accelerated aging studies. Leading manufacturers include Clariant, BASF, and Sun Chemical. MOQs for custom formulations start at 1 metric ton, with lead times of 4-6 weeks for specialty grades.