The effect of transition metals and rare-earth metals admixtures on the pigmentary properties of the cassiterite pigments

Abstract

This paper deals with the possibility to synthesise the SnO2/Cr cassiterite violet pigments in which a part of stannic ions has been substituted by the transition-metal or rare-earth metal ions, respectively. Pigments with a general formula of Sn0.99Cr0.005M0.005O2 or Sn0.99Cr0.005Ln0.005O2 (where M = Ti, Zr and Ln = Tb, Ce) have been prepared by the solid state reactions at high calcination temperatures; namely, in a range from 1350 to 1500 °C. The aim was to develop the conditions for such a synthesis of this type of pigments and to determine the effect of admixed species on the colour properties of these compounds. Synthesised pigments were characterised in terms of colour properties after their application into ceramic glaze and organic binder. The compounds of interest have also been studied with respect to their phase composition, as well as the particle size distribution, finding that they may represent a potential extension of the range of violet shades applicable in practice; especially, when speaking about their use in ceramic industry.