Oregon State University scientist says mineral structures in meteorites 'future' for safe, inorganic pigment

Oregon State University scientist Mas Subramanian made history a decade ago when he made an accidental discovery of the first new blue inorganic pigment in meteor material. However, he is working to discover more about the science of color.

According to the National Science Foundation (NSF), by examining the crystal structure of pigments, Subramanian has opened the door to discovering a whole new world of discoveries based on hibonite, a significant mineral mainly found in meteorites.

"In nature, hibonite is only found in meteorites that have been subjected to thousands of degrees of temperature when they go through Earth's atmosphere, so it makes sense that the structure is remarkably stable," Subramanian said in a NSF press release. "These kinds of mineral structures are probably the future for designing durable and safe inorganic pigments."

Additionally, the findings discovered by Subramanian were published in the American Chemical Society journal ACS OMEGA. NSF supported the study.

Subramanian discovered YlnMn blue in 2009. At that time, he was experimenting with new materials that could be used in electronics applications.

Birgit Schwenzer, the director of the program, told the NSF the characterization of these newly discovered materials could impact the way we understand physical properties by analyzing the structures of the crystals. 

"NSF's Division of Materials Research supports discovery, synthesis, and characterization of new types of materials, and studies to understand their crystal structures, chemical bonding, and physical properties," Schwenzer told NSF. "Subramanian's research shows that new materials with specific superior properties can still be discovered, either serendipitously or through targeted materials design strategies." 

Throughout history, humankind has discovered new and improved ways to paint with the color blue. However, access to certain hues of blue has been restricted.  In order to make certain types of blues, one would have to endanger the environment, due to the process and chemical makeup of the pigment.

"Most pigments are discovered by chance," Subramanian told NSF. "The color of a material depends not only on the chemical composition but also on the intricate arrangement of atoms in the crystal structure."