Zinc chromite pigment was synthesized via Pechini method. Firstly, a thermodynamic study was done in order to predict the operational details for the synthesis of this pigment by the co-precipitation method. However, the results showed that although possible, it is difficult since it would be necessary use of inert atmosphere (hydrogen atmosphere) and a range of pH (5.5-6.5) very narrow. So the polymeric precursor method was chosen to prepare the pigment. After calcination at different temperatures, characterizations were done by X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis, scanning electron microscopy and colorimetric analysis, using the CIELab system. The powders were applied on ceramic pieces in order to evaluate the behavior of the system when added to a glaze. The colorimetric data point out the formation of green pigment, corresponding to negative values of a*. Color stability obtained from a colorimetric evaluation of the pigment under different illuminants was also studied.
Pechini method; pigments; zinc chromite