Industrial iron-based mineral pigment: FERHYDROX® iron hydroxide

Mineral pigment plays a central role in demanding industrial formulations. They are sought after for their physicochemical stability and long-term durability. Unlike organic pigments, they have a stable inorganic structure that withstands thermal stresses and external aggressions.

FERHYDROX® iron hydroxide is a natural iron-based mineral pigment, consisting of compounds with a stable crystalline structure, renowned for its robustness. It belongs to the family of hydrated ferric compounds, often referred to as iron oxyhydroxide. This ferric structure gives it excellent chemical inertness and high resistance to ultraviolet radiation.

FERHYDROX® iron hydroxide is used to ensure stable and reproducible colouration. Its controlled particle size, high active iron content and low concentration of metallic impurities ensure optimal compatibility with mineral matrices. It thus provides a reliable solution for the construction, technical materials and specific industrial process sectors.

Iron-based mineral pigments have a naturally high density, which is compatible with mineral matrices such as concrete or mortar. This characteristic facilitates their incorporation into heavy formulations without significant flotation or rising to the surface.

Particle size plays a decisive role in the pigment’s performance. The grinding and grading carried out by CMMP at its plant in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines ensure a homogeneous particle distribution. This control over particle size improves dispersion within the matrix and limits segregation. It also contributes to the visual uniformity of the colour in coloured formulations.

The thermal stability of the mineral pigment is due to its inorganic nature. FERHYDROX® iron hydroxide retains its structure under the temperature conditions encountered in building and technical materials applications. This resistance limits colour variations caused by thermal cycles and prolonged exposure.

Resistance to ultraviolet radiation is also a significant advantage. The ferric crystal structure does not undergo significant photodegradation compared to organic pigments. The colour remains stable under prolonged exposure to natural light, ensuring aesthetic durability in outdoor applications.

The chemical inertness of FERHYDROX® iron hydroxide limits undesirable interactions with other components of the formulation. In alkaline environments, such as cementitious matrices, the pigment remains stable and does not interfere with hydration reactions. This chemical compatibility contributes to the long-term stability of the mechanical and visual properties of structures.

The pigment’s performance is thus based on the combination of its mineral nature and the industrial processes of grinding, grading and quality control. This approach ensures consistent quality tailored to the requirements of technical applications.

In concrete and mortar, the mineral pigment must be distributed evenly right from the mixing stage. Inadequate dispersion can lead to visual inconsistencies, areas with higher pigment concentrations and variations in colour. The particle size distribution and density of the pigment directly influence this ability to disperse within the fresh matrix.

FERHYDROX® iron hydroxide has physical properties compatible with cementitious formulations. Its controlled particle size facilitates its incorporation into the mix without disrupting the overall cohesion of the mortar or concrete. Good particle distribution contributes to uniform colouration after setting and hardening.

In a hydrated mineral matrix, the pigment is incorporated into the network formed by the cement’s hydration products. This mechanical integration contributes to its durability. As an inorganic substance, this mineral pigment remains chemically stable in this alkaline environment. It does not react with the major constituents of the binder and does not alter the normal hydration process.

With regard to surface phenomena, this pigment limits colour variations caused by internal migration. Any efflorescence in cementitious materials is mainly linked to the soluble salts present in the matrix and not to the mineral pigment itself.

In mineral paints, particularly those using silicate or hydraulic binders, the compatibility of the pigment depends on its chemical stability and dispersion. FERHYDROX® iron hydroxide retains its properties without significantly altering the balance of the formulation. It can be incorporated without excessive changes to the rheology when the formulation is correctly adjusted.

This iron-based mineral pigment is particularly well suited to outdoor environments subject to varying climatic conditions. In cementitious or mineral-based materials, it adapts to the natural cycles of expansion and contraction caused by temperature fluctuations. Its inorganic nature gives it structural stability, which minimises damage caused by freeze-thaw cycles.

Changes in humidity do not affect its chemical composition. The pigment does not dissolve in water and does not degrade in the presence of moisture. This helps to maintain colour consistency in structures exposed to the elements.

Resistance to atmospheric agents is based on the chemical inertness of ferric compounds. The mineral pigment shows no significant susceptibility to atmospheric oxidation under normal conditions of use. Its structure remains stable when exposed to prolonged exposure to air and light.

Unlike organic pigments, it contains no compounds capable of generating emissions of volatile organic compounds. Its mineral nature limits photodegradation under sunlight. The colour is therefore retained over time, particularly on façades or exterior coatings.

Its natural mineral origin and the industrial preparation processes carried out by CMMP enable it to be seamlessly integrated into sustainable technical formulations. The use of iron-based mineral pigment is part of a strategy to ensure the longevity of materials and to manage the environmental impacts associated with the life cycles of coloured products.

FERHYDROX® iron hydroxide is developed by CMMP, a specialist in mineral processing. This iron hydroxide powder is produced and quality-controlled in France in accordance with rigorous protocols.

The processing involves grinding, grading and precise analytical testing. The iron hydroxide content is maintained at a high level to ensure consistent colouring power. Laboratory analyses verify the product’s purity, particle size and stability.

This industrial expertise guarantees consistent performance. The resulting mineral pigment meets the most stringent technical specifications. It is a suitable solution for industrial applications requiring precision, reliability and durability.