Home > Encyclopedia of Science > Dyes and Pigments

• History
• Applications
• Pigments
• Utilization

Dyes and pigments are substances that impart color to a material. The term colorant is often used for both dyes (also called dyestuffs) and pigments. The major difference between dyes and pigments is solubility (the tendency to dissolve in a liquid, especially water). Dyes are usually soluble—or can be made to be soluble—in water. Once a dye is dissolved in water, the material to be dyed can be immersed in the dye solution. As the material soaks up the dye and dries, it develops a color. If the material then retains that color after being washed, the dye is said to be colorfast.

Pigments are generally not soluble in water, oil, or other common solvents. To be applied to a material, they are first ground into a fine powder and thoroughly mixed...