Description
What is Iridium Black
Iridium black is a very dark pigment based on iridium oxide species (such as IrO2 and related sub-oxides). It is used in specialized pigments and coatings where extreme darkness, chemical stability, and high-temperature tolerance are important. It is different from common carbon black pigments and is typically much more expensive and used in niche applications.
Key properties
- Color: Extremely deep black, often with high opacity depending on particle size and dispersion
- Lightfastness: Excellent, with strong resistance to fading under light
- Thermal stability: High, suitable for high-temperature environments and durable glaze or coating work
- Chemical stability: Generally very stable and resistant to many chemicals
- Cost and availability: Significantly more expensive and less widely available than common black pigments
- Form: Usually supplied as a fine powder suitable for dispersing in paints, ceramics glazes, or coatings
Common uses
- Pigment in high-temperature ceramics and glazes
- Specialized coatings and optical absorptive layers
- Research and niche industrial applications where durable black pigments are required
- Occasionally studied as a catalyst material in electrochemical research
Quick comparison with other blacks
| Property | Iridium Black | Carbon Black | Iron Oxide Black |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color depth | Very deep black | Very deep black, can vary with grade | Black with possible reddish undertones |
| Lightfastness | Excellent | Good to excellent (grade dependent) | Moderate to good |
| Thermal stability | Very high | Moderate to high (grade dependent) | Moderate |
| Cost | Very high | Low to moderate | Moderate |
| Typical uses | High temperature coatings, specialized ceramics | General paints, plastics, inks | Paints, cosmetics, ceramics |
Safety and handling
- Handle as a fine powder; avoid inhalation and excessive dust. Use appropriate PPE and good ventilation.
- Follow material safety data sheet (MSDS) guidelines for handling and disposal.
- Keep away from incompatible materials and store in a sealed container when not in use.
Want to know more?
If you’re looking to buy or specify Iridium black for a project, tell me:
- the intended application (ceramics, coatings, research, etc.)
- desired pigment form and dispersion requirements
- any regulatory or budget constraints
I can tailor guidance on suppliers, grades, and compatibility with binders or glaze systems.
Key takeaway: Iridium black is a highly stable, extremely deep black pigment used in specialized, high-temperature, and durable applications, but it is much more expensive and less common than standard black pigments.
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