Abstract:
A new class of pigments: Y2Ce2 xTbxO7 (x ¼ 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0) were synthesized by a conventional
solid state route. The Tb substitution extends the absorption edge to longer wavelengths by
introducing an additional electronic level between the valence band and conduction band leading to
various red colors by fine tuning the band gap from 3.11 eV (ivory white) to 1.87 eV (red). The pigments
displayed intense red color (a* ¼ 26) with high near infrared reflectance (80%). The applicability studies
of these pigments in polymer matrix (poly methyl methacrylate), cement slab, asbestos sheet and
ceramic glazes exhibited good coloring performance with high near infrared reflectance. These results
demonstrate the synthesized pigments as potential near infrared reflective candidates for cool roof and
surface coating applications.
