Synthesis and characterization of mica/γ-Ce2−xYxS3 composite red pigments with UV absorption and high NIR reflectance

Abstract Environmentally benign red mica/γ-Ce 2−x Y x S 3 composite pigments were synthesized by the deposition of γ-Ce 2−x Y x S 3 pigments on mica so as to improve their color and optical properties. Comprehensive analyses were performed to characterize the obtained pigments, including XRD, SEM, TG-DSC, UV–vis–NIR diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and CIE 1976 L*a*b* color scales. The results revealed that spherical Ce 2−x Y x S 3 particles were coated on the surface of mica uniformly, and the doped γ-Ce 2−x Y x S 3 exhibited single-phase cubic crystal structure as γ-Ce 2 S 3 . Moreover, chromatic properties (L*, a*, b* and C*) and thermal stability of mica/γ-Ce 2−x Y x S 3 pigments were all better than that of pure γ-Ce 2 S 3 . The obtained mica/γ-Ce 2−x Y x S 3 pigments showed strong ultraviolet shielding ability and color stability. Besides, they exhibited higher near-infrared reflectance and solar reflectance than those of pure γ-Ce 2 S 3 . The above results indicated that these red pigments have potential to be used as ‘cool pigments’ in energy saving and UV protection areas.