What's the Best Way to Measure the Color of Plastic Pellets?

Using a spectrophotometer is the best way to measure the color of plastic pellets. These technological devices deliver reliable and accurate measurements that help you ensure the color remains consistent with each batch while adhering to industry standards.

Measure the Color of Plastic Pellets Using the Right Equipment

Plastic pellets vary in transparency and opacity, so you should use the appropriate measurement equipment and accessories for accurate results. Plastic pellets should be measured with a reflectance spectrophotometer. Opaque plastic pellets require only a sample cup, while transparent plastic pellets may require the use of an opaque cover. 

Keep Industry Standards in Mind

An effective color measurement system follows industry standards. As a part of quality and process control, it's important to measure the color of plastic pellets according to the testing standards set by ASTM. Plus, following the standards ensures you measure the pellets more accurately for consistent results.

Spectrophotometers can help you adhere to industry standards by offering a straightforward way to meet the outlined specifications.

Assess the Degree of Yellowness

Achieving clear and consistent colors is critical in plastic production. However, plastic resin can turn yellow when subjected to oxidation. Yellowness directly impacts the value and perceived quality of plastic products. To prevent the yellowish appearance, optical brighteners are used to make the plastics look more clear or white. 

Optical brighteners are also often used to enhance the appearance of recycled plastics. As a result, it's essential to assess the degree of yellowness in plastic resin to determine the appropriate concentration of optical brighteners needed to counteract the yellowing effect of plastics throughout the supply chain.

As the plastic production industry moves toward using recycled plastics, you'll need a robust spectrophotometer that can measure the color and fluorescence quality of virgin and recycled plastic resin and a combination of the two. By doing so, the spectrophotometer can help mitigate yellowness and ensure the optical brighteners are adjusted for at every stage of the production process. 

Measure Objectively

Implementing an objective measuring process is crucial for eliminating errors and inconsistencies that go unnoticed by relying on visual inspection alone. The appearance of color is often influenced by various factors, including subjective perception, viewing angles, and light sources. The surface condition of plastic pellets is another factor in which texture or glossiness can affect the color's appearance.

A spectrophotometer such as the HunterLab Agera quantifies color measurements, giving results based on numerical values. The device eliminates human error and provides a more objective measuring process.

Examine the Measurement Results

Spectrophotometers provide comprehensive data that goes beyond what the eye can see. While the measurements provide detailed information about the plastic pellets' color and properties, they can also alert you to subtle color shifts or inconsistencies. Examining the data after each test can help you improve your production process and protect your bottom line. 

Meet Regulatory Compliance

HunterLab helps you meet Regulatory Compliance. Medical, food, pharma, and auto have strict material standards.  Our spectrophotometers provide objective color data to demonstrate compliance.

Consider Sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Goals

Accurately measuring the color of plastic resin throughout the manufacturing process is crucial for maintaining sustainability and ESG goals. Utilizing a spectrophotometer that can measure the color of virgin and recycled plastic resin allows you to detect color issues early and mitigate the yellowness that often leads to the production of incorrectly colored pellets.

When the pellets' color aligns with quality standards, you can reduce product waste and the likelihood of a significant number of products ending up as scrap or in landfills. Plus, you can minimize the carbon footprint associated with unnecessary energy consumption from reworks.

Partner With HunterLab for Cutting-Edge Color Measurement Solutions

At HunterLab, we've been producing color measurement solutions for over 70 years, and our commitment to innovation has kept us at the forefront of the industry. Our reliable spectrophotometers deliver precise and objective measurements of plastic pellet colors. In addition to helping you streamline production with speedy results, these devices also ensure you meet industry standards. Contact us to learn more about our solutions today.