Product overview
Specifications
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PB 15:4 vs PB 15:3 — the chlorine-free distinction
Both grades share the same beta crystal modification and near-identical performance in most applications. The key difference is that PB 15:4 is synthesised without chlorinated intermediates, eliminating traces of organochlorine impurities. This makes PB 15:4 the compliant choice for food-contact packaging under FDA 21 CFR, EU Regulation 10/2011, and Swiss Food Contact Ordinance requirements — while PB 15:3 (which may contain trace chlorinated species from synthesis) is not approved for direct food contact. If your application does not require food-contact compliance, PB 15:3 is the more widely available and economical grade.
Chemical class
Phthalocyanine Blue (Beta, Chlorine-Free)
Colour Index name
Pigment Blue 15:4
Colour Index number
CI 74160
CAS number
147-14-8
Molecular formula
C₃₂H₁₆CuN₈
Crystal modification
Beta (β) — thermodynamically stable
Chlorine content
None — chlorine-free synthesis
Shade tone
Greenish blue (beta phase)
Specific gravity
~1.6 g/cm³
pH (10% slurry)
6.5 – 8.0
Available forms
Powder · Paste · Presscake
Heat stability
Stable up to 250 °C
Food-Contact Compliance — Why It Matters
PB 15:4 is specifically chosen for food packaging applications because it meets the stringent limits for extractable substances in direct and indirect food contact materials. The absence of chlorinated impurities satisfies regulatory requirements across the major food-contact frameworks in the US, EU, and Switzerland.
FDA 21 CFR 178.3297
EU Regulation 10/2011
Swiss Ordinance Annex 6
EuPIA Compliant
Halogen-Free
Series comparison
Pigment Blue 15 Family
All four grades share CI 74160 but differ in crystal phase, surface treatment, and synthesis route. Choosing correctly avoids compliance failures and formulation problems.
PB 15:0
Alpha — Standard
Shade: Reddish blue
Best for: Water-based inks, paper
Note: Can crystallize in solvents
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PB 15:1
Alpha — NC Modified
Shade: Reddish blue
Best for: Solventborne coatings, rubber
Note: Non-crystallizing in solvents
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PB 15:3
Beta — Standard
Shade: Greenish blue (process cyan)
Best for: Inks, paints, plastics
Note: Most widely used; not food-contact
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PB 15:4
Beta — Chlorine-Free
Shade: Greenish blue
Best for: Food packaging, textiles
Note: FDA / EU food-contact compliant
Product forms
Available Forms
Presscake form is preferred for high-quality ink and coating grinding operations. Paste form for direct incorporation into packaging ink and metal decorative systems. Contact us to confirm food-contact grade documentation and available form for your specific application.
