What Is a Natural Pigment and Why Is It a Sustainable Alternative?

KnowledgeNews

In an industrial landscape increasingly committed to sustainability, natural pigments are making a comeback as a responsible, efficient, and long-lasting solution. But how do they differ from synthetic pigments? And what advantages do they offer across industries like cement, paints, plastics, and cosmetics?

What Is a Natural Pigment?

Mineral origin and extraction process

Natural pigments are coloured substances obtained directly from minerals, without the need for complex chemical synthesis processes. At PROMINDSA, the Micronox range of natural pigments is produced from iron oxides extracted from our own mines. Once the mineral is extracted and classified, it is processed and micronised in accordance with technical quality and sustainability standards..

Chemical and thermal properties of inorganic pigments

Due to their inorganic origin, natural pigments offer outstanding thermal and chemical stability. They resist degradation from heat, sunlight, and chemical exposure, making them ideal for demanding industrial applications.

Differences Between Natural and Synthetic Pigments

Environmental impact

Natural pigments require less energy to produce and generate fewer toxic by-products compared to synthetic pigments. Their simpler, low-impact production process leads to a smaller environmental footprint.

Color stability and durability

Natural pigments—especially iron oxides—are known for their resistance to weathering, UV radiation, and time. This results in consistent, long-lasting colors across different applications.

Benefits of Using Natural Pigments in Industry

Lower carbon footprint

Choosing natural pigments helps industrial manufacturers reduce their environmental impact and align with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) policies and sustainability goals.

Compliance with global and European regulations

Natural pigments support compliance with strict environmental and health regulations such as REACH, FDA, and E-172, which are increasingly mandatory in international markets.

A more sustainable image for responsible brands

Using natural mineral pigments enhances a brand’s environmental positioning and reputation—especially in industries where sustainability influences purchasing decisions.

Industrial Applications of Micronox Pigments

Cement, paint, and ceramic uses

Micronox pigments are widely used in colored mortars, cements, industrial paints, and ceramic glazes—offering color, durability, and high performance.

Compatibility with plastics, rubber, and fertilizers

The product line is suitable for use in polymers, plastics, rubber, agricultural fertilizers, and other materials where color stability is key.

Why Choose Micronox Pigments?

Certified technical quality

Each Micronox pigment comes with a technical data sheet, particle size analysis, and certifications such as REACH, depending on the specific application.

Trusted in over 70 countries

Micronox is a globally recognized brand, trusted by leading companies in Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Africa to color their products safely and responsibly.

Explore the full Micronox catalog

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