Researchers have unveiled the first new shade of blue in 200 years - which was discovered by accident in an experiment at Oregon State University. YInMn blue is named after the elements it comprises - yttrium, indium, and manganese.
Scientists from Oregon State University created the new shade of blue in an experiment seven years ago. Mas Subramanian and his team mixed black manganese oxide with other chemicals, heated them to a temperature of more than 1000 degrees Celsius and created a new blue compound they named YInMn, which is the first new inorganic blue pigment in two centuries.
YInMn features a unique crystal structure that only reflects blue wavelengths, meaning it is highly stable. In absorbs red and green wavelengths of light and as a result has an infrared reflectivity of about 40 percent that enables it to resist sunlight better than other blues. Consequently, it can be used for cooling houses and increases energy efficiency.
After extensive testing - including a week in an acid bath to make sure the pigment doesn't fade - the university has made a license agreement with Shepherd Color Company so that YInMn will soon it be widely available.
As YInMn doesn’t contain toxic substances, it can be used in varnishes and plastics, said Subramanian. “Our pigment is also useful for art restoration, because it is similar to ultramarine but more durable."
The Harvard Art Museum has now included YInMn in the Forbes Pigment Collection, which displays the world history of colour.