In 2009, a graduate student in the research team led by Professor Mas Subramanian of the University of Oregon accidentally discovered YInMn blue pigment in the experiment. During the manganese oxide experiment, the electronic properties of manganese oxide were investigated and analyzed, and a bright blue pigment was discovered. It comes in a new shade, and the pigment will also help build ultra-energy-efficient homes. However, it was not promoted at that time due to technical and other reasons. It was not until recently that this unique pigment was commercialized when all conditions were mature.
The name of this new pigment depends on its composition. Professor Subramani, Department of Materials Science, Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, said: "Basically, this is an accidental discovery, and we are making Actively exploring some of the unique electronic properties of manganese oxide, which are both ferroelectric and ferromagnetic, our research was actually not related to the discovery of pigments. Quite unexpectedly, one day a graduate student involved in the experimental project came out of the hot furnace. Taking the sample, I happened to be walking by and saw that it was blue, a very beautiful blue, and I knew immediately that something amazing was going to happen."
At 1200 degrees Celsius, the color of benign manganese oxide will change to bright blue. The new pigment is formed through a unique crystal structure whose manganese ions absorb red and green light wavelengths and reflect only blue wavelengths. This vivid blue is so durable and its composition is so stable that its color will not fade even in soil and moisture.
The color has commercial market value and some artists have started using it, but Professor Subramani points out that it is not just a pigment, it has some unique properties that make it even more special. Its bright blue color is more durable and easy to manufacture safely, and it will be a new energy-efficient material. Because it reflects a large amount of infrared light, using YInMn blue pigment as a house coating can make buildings cooler.
Geoffrey Peake, director of R&D at Sheard Color Company, said: “This new blue pigment is an inorganic pigment, and the company has obtained licenses to produce and sell YInMn blue pigments. Patent right. "At the same time, this pigment can also resist heat and acid. The pigment is still being tested and will be put into wider applications later. Professor Subramani emphasized that YInMn blue pigment can be used to repair ball art because it is similar to cyan blue, but more stable.