Synthesis of tantalum(V)-based nitride and oxynitrides on aluminum nitride particles and its application to over glaze color

Ta(V)-based nitride and oxynitrides have been prepared by solution-precipitation process in a liquid phase formed on the surface of aluminum nitride particles during heat-treatment in nitrogen atmosphere. This eco-friendly and cost-effective process is suitable for an industrial scale production of the pigments containing Ta(V)-based nitride or oxynitrides, compared to the conventional method such as ammonolysis of tantalum oxide with flowing large amounts of ammonia. The pigment synthesized by this method was mixed with a borosilicate frit to prepare an over glaze color. The color applied on glazed ceramic plates showed the brilliant color of yellowish red–yellow with high chroma values. They have a potential to be employed as non-toxic ceramic pigments, and to substitute pigments containing harmful elements.