Oxide Black

Oxide Black (Black Iron Oxide - Fe₃O₄)

Oxide Black, commonly referred to as Black Iron Oxide or Magnetite, is an inorganic compound widely used as a pigment and in various industrial applications. Its chemical formula is Fe₃O₄, consisting of iron and oxygen in a mixed oxidation state. This material is prized for its intense black color, stability, and non-toxic nature.

Physical and Chemical Properties:

1. Chemical Formula: Fe₃O₄
2. Molecular Weight: ~231.54 g/mol
3. Appearance: Fine black powder
4. Odor: Odorless
5. Density: ~5.17 g/cm³
6. Melting Point: ~1,597°C
7. Solubility: Insoluble in water and organic solvents
8. pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline in water
9. Magnetic Properties: Magnetite form exhibits ferromagnetic behavior.

Applications:

1. Pigments:

• Paints and Coatings: Used in industrial and decorative paints for a durable black color.
• Plastics: Adds color and UV resistance to plastic products.
• Concrete and Construction: Used to color tiles, pavers, bricks, and concrete.

2. Ceramics:

• Provides a deep black glaze in ceramic and pottery applications.

3. Cosmetics:

• Found in mascaras, eyeliners, and other makeup products as a non-toxic black pigment.

4. Magnetic Applications:

• Used in ferrites for electronic components like transformers and inductors.
• Found in magnetic recording media and data storage.

5. Catalysts:

• Acts as a catalyst in chemical reactions, such as in Fischer-Tropsch synthesis and hydrogen production.

6. Water Treatment:

• Used as a filtration medium in water purification systems.

7. Biomedical Applications:

• Magnetite nanoparticles are used in drug delivery systems, MRI imaging, and cancer therapy due to their magnetic properties.

Advantages:

1. Non-Toxic: Safe for use in food-contact surfaces and cosmetics.
2. UV Stability: Resistant to fading when exposed to sunlight.
3. Chemical Stability: Does not degrade under normal environmental conditions.
4. Cost-Effective: Affordable and widely available.

Handling and Safety:

Hazards:

• Considered low-toxicity but can cause irritation if inhaled or ingested in large amounts.
• Fine powder can pose a dust explosion hazard in confined spaces.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Respirator: Use a dust mask or respirator in poorly ventilated areas.
• Eye Protection: Wear safety goggles.
• Gloves: Use gloves to prevent skin staining or irritation.

Storage:

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture.
• Use tightly sealed containers to prevent contamination or clumping.

First Aid:

1. Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical advice if breathing difficulties occur.
2. Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water.
3. Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with water for at least 15 minutes.
4. Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water and seek medical advice if necessary.

Preparation and Usage:

• Black Iron Oxide can be mixed with other pigments to create custom shades.
• In construction, it is typically added as a dry powder during the mixing phase of cement or mortar.
• In paints, it is dispersed using mechanical mixers for uniform coloring.

If you’re working on a specific application, let me know, and I can provide tailored instructions!