Lithopone & Other Zinc Sulfide-Based Pigments and Preparations

Lithopone remains cost-competitive in interior architectural paints where maximum opacity is less critical, in rubber compounding where TiO₂'s UV-catalytic activity is undesirable, and in certain adhesive and sealant formulations. Its lower refractive index compared to rutile TiO₂ limits its use in high-hiding exterior coatings, but its price point and compatibility with sulfur-containing rubber systems sustain demand in those specific segments.

Standard lithopone is a co-precipitate with barium sulfate and functions as a white pigment. Phosphorescent zinc sulfide pigments are typically doped with activator metals (such as copper or silver) to produce afterglow luminescence and may be more appropriately classified under the luminophore heading (SITC 53318) depending on their primary function. Importers should document the product's composition and intended use to support the correct classification.