From the cars we drive to the cards we use, color plays an essential role in consumer choices. In fact, studies show that 85% of consumers say color is the primary reason for purchasing a product. However, traditional colorants like pigments and dyes are often derived from non-renewable materials, and their production emits pollutants and carbon emissions.
The Challenges of Traditional Colorants
The traditional methods for applying color to products come with a range of challenges:
- Environmental Concerns: The raw materials for pigments and dyes are often sourced using questionable mining practices, contributing to lasting environmental impact.
- High Energy Use and Emissions: The production of these colorants requires substantial energy and emits significant amounts of CO₂, contributing to climate change.
- Toxic Byproducts: The manufacturing of conventional colorants produces harmful byproducts, posing risks to both human health and long-lasting environmental impact.
Enter Cypris Materials: A Revolution in Color Technology
Cypris Materials Inc. has set out to change the way we think about color. Drawing inspiration from vibrant, sustainable hues found in nature, the company has developed a groundbreaking, eco-friendly colorant technology based on structural color, according to Ryan Pearson, CEO, Cypris Materials.
Unlike traditional pigments, which absorb specific wavelengths of light, CYPRIS™ structural color creates color through the interaction of light with microstructured polymeric materials. The result is a vibrant, iridescent color palette that can be tailored across the full spectrum—from visible light to ultraviolet (UV) and infrared.
How CYPRIS Structural Color Works
Traditional colorants, whether pigments or dyes, are made from various raw materials that absorb light at specific wavelengths. These processes are complex, energy-intensive and often involve harmful chemicals. CYPRIS structural color reflects light rather than absorbing it, using a single material to produce a range of colors. This means that instead of the traditional multistep, energy-heavy methods of pigment production, Cypris Materials uses a much more sustainable approach.
- One Material, Many Colors: Cypris Materials’ innovative technology allows for the creation of a full rainbow of colors using the same material—and even infrared and ultraviolet functionality.
- Environmentally Friendly: This method significantly reduces energy use and CO₂ emissions compared to traditional colorants, with third-party lifecycle assessments showing that CYPRIS structural color producesup to 80% fewer carbon emissions.
Flexible and Customizable Coating Applications
CYPRIS is compatible with a wide range of industrial coating methods—from automotive to cosmetics to consumer electronics to cards. Its color can be applied using standard coating methods like spray and printing, and it’s fully compatible with existing OEM equipment. Whether in 100% UV curable or traditional liquid coating formulations, CYPRIS structural color is highly versatile, ensuring compatibility with various manufacturing processes.
One of the most exciting features of the technology is its dynamic color-shift effect, which creates engaging visual effects on cards. This ability to reflect light in unique ways opens up new possibilities for designers looking to push the boundaries of aesthetic innovation.
Why CYPRIS Structural Color Stands Out
- Sustainable: CYPRIS structural color is made with bio-based materials, is metal-free, recyclable, and free from child labor.
- Premium Vibrancy: CYPRIS provides rich, vibrant colors that are not only visually striking but also eco-friendly. Whether you’re looking for iridescent hues or more subtle effects, CYRPIS delivers.
- Design Flexibility: The technology supports a wide range of design needs, including tactile effects and visual iridescence, allowing brands to differentiate themselves in the marketplace.
Differentiation in the Market
With CYRPIS structural color, businesses can achieve a differentiated appearance that sets them apart from competitors. The high chroma and color-shift qualities make products visually captivating and engaging, allowing brands to tell a story with their designs. This fresh approach to coloration enables designers to create products that aren’t just functional—they’re also artistic statements.
The Future of Color: Sustainable, Vibrant and Engaging
The future of color is sustainable, innovative and visually striking. Cypris Materials is proud to be at the forefront of this transformation, offering a solution that not only meets the demands of the modern consumer but also supports a healthier planet. As more brands adopt CYPRIS structural color, the company envisions the use of color as a tool to communicate sustainable design and eco-conscious branding.
More Insights on Card Trends
For more than 30 years, ICMA has represented the interests of the card manufacturing industry—which includes manufacturers, personalizers, issuers and suppliers—as its leading global association.
Throughout the year, ICMA members have the opportunity to share insights and knowledge by giving presentations during ICMA webcasts and events. The association’s main event is its annual Card Manufacturing & Personalization EXPO. The 2025 EXPO will take place from May 12-15 in Orlando, Florida.
ICMA offers regular educational opportunities, including ACE-Manufacturing, ACE-Personalization and ACE-Advanced Technologies training and exams at the ICMA EXPO. ICMA also offers ACE-Commercial training, which provides sales, marketing, customer service and other key personnel at ICMA member companies with the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of card manufacturing.
Learn more about the benefits of ICMA membership.