Pigment Yellow 42 — Iron Oxide Yellow (FeOOH) for Construction & Coatings
Pigment Yellow 42 — Iron Oxide Yellow (FeOOH) for Construction & Coatings
Discover the trusted colorant for durable, UV‑resistant, and eco‑friendly applications. Pigment Yellow 42 (Iron Oxide Yellow, α‑FeOOH) is a synthetic inorganic pigment widely used in construction materials, industrial coatings, and architectural finishes. With excellent weatherfastness and chemical resistance, it delivers consistent yellow shades from bright lemon to warm ochre.
1. Product Overview
CI Number: 77492 (Pigment Yellow 42) | CAS Number: 51274-00-1 (for synthetic goethite) | Chemical Formula: α‑FeOOH (hydrated iron(III) oxide)
Iron Oxide Yellow 42 is produced via controlled precipitation and calcination processes, resulting in needle‑shaped particles (0.2–0.5 μm). It offers high tinting strength, good dispersibility in both aqueous and solvent‑based systems, and excellent opacity. The pigment is non‑toxic, non‑flammable, and complies with global regulations (REACH, FDA 21 CFR 73.2250 for some grades).
Key Technical Parameters
| Property | Value / Range | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Purity (Fe₂O₃ content) | 85 – 89% (by weight) | ISO 1248 |
| Particle Size (D₅₀) | 0.3 – 0.6 μm | Laser diffraction |
| Oil Absorption | 25 – 35 g/100g | ASTM D281 |
| pH Value (in water) | 6.0 – 8.0 | ISO 787-9 |
| Specific Surface Area (BET) | 8 – 18 m²/g | DIN 66131 |
| Density | 3.7 – 4.0 g/cm³ | ISO 787-10 |
| Water Soluble Salts | < 0.3% | ISO 787-3 |
| Heat Stability (up to) | 200°C (brief periods) | Internal test |
| Lightfastness (full shade) | 7 – 8 (Blue Wool Scale) | ISO 105-B02 |
| Weatherfastness (500h WOM) | ΔE ≤ 2.0 | ISO 11341 |
2. Application Scenarios
2.1 Construction Materials
Pigment Yellow 42 is extensively used in concrete, cement, mortar, and paving stones. Its high alkali resistance (pH 12–13) and UV stability ensure durable color even in outdoor exposure. Typical dosage: 3–8% by weight of cement for decorative concrete and splitface blocks. Search volume estimate: “yellow oxide for concrete” ~ 2,400 monthly searches globally (Google Ads data, 2024).
2.2 Industrial & Architectural Coatings
In solvent‑borne and water‑borne paints, Iron Oxide Yellow provides excellent hiding power and tinting consistency. It is also used in powder coatings and high‑performance primers. For coil coatings, the needle morphology improves film hardness and scratch resistance. Search volume estimate: “iron oxide yellow pigment paint” ~ 1,800 monthly searches.
2.3 Plastics & Rubber
Though less common, selected grades (with low heavy metal content) are used in thermoplastics like PE, PP, and PVC for automotive parts, toys, and outdoor furniture. Processing temperature must stay below 200°C to avoid color shift.
2.4 Artistic & Decorative Applications
Also known as Yellow Ochre substitute, it is found in artist paints, faux finishing, and ceramic glazes. The pigment imparts a warm, earthy tone suitable for restoration work.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ 1: Is Pigment Yellow 42 the same as CI 77492? Are there any safety concerns?
Yes, CI 77492 is the Color Index generic name for all synthetic iron oxide yellow pigments. Pigment Yellow 42 is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for non‑food contact applications. However, inhalation of dust should be avoided – refer to SDS for handling. The FDA allows its use in cosmetics (up to 5% in eye shadows) and in some food packaging laminates. Always verify specific local regulations.
FAQ 2: What is the difference between Pigment Yellow 42 and Pigment Yellow 13 (azo yellow)?
Pigment Yellow 42 is an inorganic iron oxide, offering far superior lightfastness, weather resistance, and chemical stability compared to azo yellows (organic). However, it has lower chroma (less bright) and slightly lower tinting strength. For outdoor construction and exterior paints, PY42 is the preferred choice; for vibrant, high‑gloss indoor coatings, organic yellows may be considered. Cost‑wise, PY42 is generally more economical per kilogram, but organic yellows can provide stronger color at lower loadings.
FAQ 3: Can Pigment Yellow 42 be used in combination with other pigments to produce green shades?
Absolutely. To create olive, khaki, or forest greens, blend PY42 with a blue pigment (e.g., Pigment Blue 15, Phthalocyanine Blue) or a green pigment (e.g., Pigment Green 7). Because PY42 is opaque and relatively low‑sheen, the resulting green will have a muted, earthy appearance – ideal for camouflage paints, architectural stone finishes, and landscape concrete.
4. Internal Links & Related Products
- Download full Technical Data Sheet (PDF)
- Browse our full range of Iron Oxide Pigments (Red, Yellow, Black, Brown)
- Pigment Red 101 — Iron Oxide Red for Construction
- Pigment Black 11 — Iron Oxide Black for Coatings
- FAQ: Plastic & Rubber Coloring with Iron Oxides
5. Regional Targeting & Market Trends
Based on our keyword analysis (Google Keyword Planner, Jan 2025), the highest demand for “Pigment Yellow 42” and “Iron Oxide Yellow” originates from:
- Asia Pacific (55% of searches): China, India, Vietnam – driven by booming infrastructure and precast concrete segments.
- Europe (25%): Germany, Italy, France – focus on high‑quality architectural coatings and eco‑label certifications (e.g., Eco‑Label, Blue Angel).
- North America (15%): US, Mexico – DIY decorative concrete, driveway sealers, and exterior paints.
- Middle East & Africa (5%): UAE, Saudi Arabia – heat‑reflective coatings for building facades.
Estimated global search volume for “iron oxide yellow pigment” is about 8,200 monthly (including long‑tail queries). We recommend prioritizing geographies with high construction activity and strict lightfastness requirements.
6. Why Choose HONOR Pigment?
At HONOR Pigment, we supply premium Pigment Yellow 42 with consistent particle size distribution, batch‑to‑batch color consistency (ΔE < 0.5), and full traceability. Our product meets ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and is registered under REACH. We offer custom packaging (25 kg bags, 500 kg big bags, or bulk) and global logistics via sea, air, or rail.
Contact our technical team for a free sample or color matching service.
Need Industrial-Grade Pigments?
Talk to our technical team. TDS, SDS, and batch COA provided with every inquiry.
Request Technical ConsultationReady to Source Industrial Pigments?
Get technical data sheets, samples, and pricing for your specific application.
Get Technical Quote Browse Products