​Ultramarine Blue color ( 30 g )

Ultramarine Blue

Ultramarine blue is a vivid, intense blue pigment made from a synthetic version of the mineral lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone. This pigment has a rich historical significance, as it has been used in art and decoration for centuries. The modern synthetic version of ultramarine blue is known for its excellent lightfastness, chemical stability, and vibrant hue, making it a popular choice in a wide range of applications today.

Chemical Composition:

• Chemical Formula: ${\text{Na}}_8\left[{\text{AlSiO}}_4{]}_6\right[{\text{SO}}_4{]}_2$Na8[AlSiO4]6[SO4]2 (The pigment consists of sodium aluminosilicate with sulfur incorporated into its crystal structure).
• CAS Number: 57455-37-5 (for synthetic ultramarine blue).
• Other Names: Ultramarine, French ultramarine, synthetic ultramarine blue.

Physical Properties:

• Color: A deep, intense blue with greenish undertones.
• Form: Fine powder, typically ground into a very fine particle size to enhance color purity and dispersion in products.
• Density: Approximately 2.7 g/cm³.
• Solubility: Insoluble in water and organic solvents, which makes it durable in various products and applications.
• Stability: Ultramarine blue is highly lightfast, resistant to UV degradation, and stable under a wide range of environmental conditions.
• Opacity: Semi-transparent to opaque, depending on the formulation, usage, and particle size.

Manufacturing Process:

Ultramarine blue is produced synthetically by heating a mixture of alumina (aluminum oxide), silica (silicon dioxide), sodium carbonate (soda ash), and sulfur at high temperatures (approximately 800-1000°C). The heat causes a reaction that results in the formation of the ultramarine structure, which is a deep blue color.

Key steps include:

1. Fusion: The raw materials are heated in a furnace to high temperatures, typically around 800–1000°C.
2. Purification: The resulting ultramarine pigment is cooled, washed, and refined to remove impurities, ensuring a pure color.
3. Grind and Process: The cooled material is ground into a fine powder for easy dispersion in products.

The synthetic version of ultramarine blue can vary slightly in hue depending on the processing conditions and purity of the ingredients used.

Uses and Applications:

Ultramarine blue is a highly versatile pigment with applications in various industries due to its vibrant color and excellent durability.

1. Paints and Coatings:

• Ultramarine blue is most commonly used in artists' paints (oil paints, acrylics, and watercolors) and in industrial paints and coatings. It provides a strong, vivid blue color that is resistant to fading.
• Usage rate: Typically 5% to 20% by weight, depending on the specific formulation and desired color intensity. Artists' paints often contain higher concentrations to achieve intense hues.

2. Plastics:

• This pigment is used to color plastics, rubber, and synthetic materials, such as toys, automotive parts, and packaging, where durability and long-lasting color are essential.
• Usage rate: Typically ranges from 1% to 5% by weight, depending on the material being colored and the desired shade.

3. Cosmetics:

• Ultramarine blue is used in cosmetics like eyeshadows, mascaras, and body paints due to its non-toxic and vibrant hue. It’s also used in formulations for special effects makeup, providing bold blue accents.
• Usage rate: 0.1% to 5%, depending on the cosmetic product and its formulation
• For cold process, mix 1 teaspoon with 1 tablespoon of lightweight oil.

5. Ceramics and Glass:

• This pigment is used in ceramic glazes and glass to create rich, vibrant blue tones, and it’s often found in decorative ceramic tiles and glassware.
• Usage rate: In ceramics, typically 2% to 10%, depending on the type of glaze or ceramic body used.

6. Textiles:

• Ultramarine blue is used in the dyeing and coloring of textiles, particularly in specialty fabrics or in applications where a vibrant, fast color is needed.
• Usage rate: Typically 1% to 3% by weight, depending on the textile and the desired color strength.

7. Construction Materials:

• It is also used in the coloring of construction materials like concrete, grout, and other masonry products, providing a long-lasting blue pigment.
• Usage rate: Generally 0.5% to 2% by weight of cement or aggregate in concrete applications.

8. Other Applications:

• Ultramarine blue is sometimes used in specialized products such as toners, colorants in plastics, and even in certain pharmaceuticals or food applications, though less common.
• Usage rate: 3% to 10% for these niche applications.

Key Advantages:

• Lightfastness: Ultramarine blue has excellent lightfastness and will not fade under exposure to light, making it ideal for outdoor and permanent applications.
• Chemical Stability: It is stable in a wide range of pH values and resistant to most chemicals, making it versatile and durable in industrial and consumer products.
• Non-Toxicity: Ultramarine blue is non-toxic and safe for use in consumer products, including cosmetics, art supplies, and food packaging (when formulated appropriately).
• Heat Resistance: This pigment can withstand high temperatures, which makes it suitable for use in ceramics, glass, and high-heat industrial applications.
• Opacity: Ultramarine blue provides excellent opacity, allowing it to cover underlying surfaces with ease, especially in paints and coatings.

Percentage and Usage Rate:

Ultramarine blue's usage percentage will vary depending on the intended application and color intensity required:

• Paints and Coatings: 5% to 20% for strong, vivid hues.
• Plastics and Rubber: 1% to 5% for coloring plastics and synthetic materials.
• Cosmetics: 0.1% to 5% in makeup products such as eyeshadows and body paints.
• Inks: 5% to 15% depending on the formulation.
• Ceramics and Glass: 2% to 10% for use in glazes and decorative items.
• Textiles: 1% to 3% for textile dyeing.
• Construction Materials (Concrete, Mortar): 0.5% to 2% for concrete and construction products.

Environmental and Safety Considerations:

Ultramarine blue is considered environmentally friendly and non-toxic, making it safe for use in various consumer and industrial products. However, as with all pigments, it should be handled according to safety guidelines, especially in industrial settings where large quantities may be used. It is stable, and no known significant environmental impact is associated with its use when handled responsibly.

Conclusion:

Ultramarine blue is a stable, vibrant, and versatile inorganic pigment that is used in many industries, including paints, coatings, plastics, cosmetics, ceramics, and construction. Its key advantages include excellent lightfastness, chemical stability, and heat resistance, making it a popular choice for both artists and manufacturers. The typical usage rate varies from 0.5% to 20% depending on the application and color strength required. Its non-toxicity and durability make it a safe and long-lasting option for a wide range of products.