Rutile grades of titanium dioxide are used exclusively. Some are treated to enhance both pigment wetting characteristics and exterior durability properties. Formulators should follow the titanium dioxide manufacturers’ recommendations for the selection of suitable grades.
Carbon blacks are used for both black finishes and tinting purposes. In the case of black paint, channel blacks are best for jetness. Furnace blacks are used for tint bases.
Phthalocyanine blues have excellent fastness and resistance properties. They are used in combination with titanium dioxide to produce durable strong or light blues. They are also used in blue metallic paints. Indanthrone blue, which has a red undertone is also used in automotive finishing.