Synthesis and Characterisation of Rare Earth Oxide Based Pigments

Abstract

An attempt has been made to prepare eco-friendly pigments, stable at high temperature, based on rare earth metal oxides as replacement to the presently available inorganic products based on lead, chromium, cadmium, and mercury which are harmful to environment. As a first step, brilliant red pigments, ranging from chocolate (ISC 451) to crimson red (ISC 540) were prepared by calcination of cerium oxalate mixed with praseodymium oxide in varying proportions where the later acts as the chromophore. Sodium chloride in the precursor works as a modifier to improve the colour quality. Proper mixing of the ingredients and calcination at 1100^oC are required for the formation of pigments with the desired characteristics.