Inorganic colorants

Inorganic colorants refer to pigments or colorants that are derived from minerals and do not contain carbon-based compounds. These colorants are often used in various industries, including paints, coatings, ceramics, plastics, and cosmetics. Unlike organic colorants, which are derived from plant or animal sources, inorganic colorants are synthetically produced or mined from natural mineral deposits.

Some common examples of inorganic colorants include:

1. Iron Oxides: Iron oxide pigments, such as red, yellow, and black iron oxides, are widely used for their excellent lightfastness, opacity, and stability. They are often used in applications like paints, coatings, plastics, and construction materials.

2. Titanium Dioxide: Titanium dioxide is a white pigment that provides excellent opacity and brightness. It is widely used in paints, coatings, plastics, and cosmetics as a whitening agent.

3. Chromium Oxide Green: Chromium oxide green is a durable green pigment that is highly resistant to light, heat, and chemicals. It is commonly used in paints, ceramics, and plastics.

4. Ultramarine Blue: Ultramarine blue is a vibrant blue pigment that is derived from the mineral lapis lazuli. It has been used for centuries in paintings, ceramics, and cosmetics.

5. Cadmium Pigments: Cadmium-based pigments, such as cadmium red and cadmium yellow, are known for their intense and vibrant colors. However, due to environmental concerns, their usage has been restricted in some regions.

These are just a few examples of inorganic colorants. They are valued for their stability, lightfastness, and wide range of colors, making them essential for achieving desired hues and effects in various industries.