Iron oxides have been used since prehistoric times. Prehistoric humans collected minerals from the earth, crushed and pulverized them to obtain powder, and then mixed the powder with different substances to create organic pigments for use as paints. These pigments were applied to various surfaces, including cave walls, to create rock art and decoration.
One of the main components in these paints is the mineral hematite, which is composed of ferric oxide, with the formula Fe2O3.
Organic pigments found in nature tend to be less stable than synthetic ones, as they are sensitive to UV light, which can cause discoloration or fading over time.
In contrast, inorganic pigments, designed to improve properties and durability, are resistant to light, adverse environmental conditions, and the alkalis in cement. For this reason, they are preferred for applications requiring high stability and durability, such as in construction and exterior painting.
When choosing pigments to mix with cement, mortar, and concrete, it is important to select those specifically designed for construction applications. SC Pigments’ inorganic pigments are formulated to ensure color stability and compatibility with cementitious materials.