Synthesis of Structural Colorants via Silane Functionalization of Reactive Pigments

Abstract

The formulation of new colorants that are both inherently colorfast and stable is an active area of research. By utilizing tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) to form shells around colored substrates they may be enhanced with a greater reflective ability resulting in an iridescent effect. The size of this particle can contribute to the refraction of light of a similar wavelength to produce a structural coloration. The Stober process was used to produce glass nanoparticles that refract blue light. When dried on top of black carbon media, the nanoparticles aggregate in layers and are visibly bluer than when dried on clear media. With the manipulation of the size of the particles and substrate the nanoparticles are deposited on, a range of semi- to truly iridescent colors can be created. By modifying the Stober process to incorporate different functionalized silanes and pigments, this work explores the creation of more stable and vibrant colorants.