Synthesis, spectroscopic and physico-chemical studies of novel pigments derived from Lithol Rubine

Purpose The pursuit of manufacturing new inks with low financial cost is an urgent economic demand. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to synthesize some new pigments derived from Lithol Rubine (LR) via a successful simple route and to investigate their physicochemical properties for usage in the inks industry. Design/methodology/approach Two novel pigments were generated during the reaction of LR with Mn(II) and Co(II) salts in ethanolic solutions. The obtained pigments were isolated as solid compounds and characterized through elemental analysis, UV-vis, Fourier transform infrared, 1H NMR spectra, oil absorption, specific gravity, melting point, molar conductivity and magnetic moment measurements. Their dyeing and durability characteristics were examined using American Standard Testing Methods. The synthesized pigments were then applied in inks formulation. Findings The printing inks containing the two new pigments (LR-Mn and LR-Co) were compared to (GF 59-606 and GF 59-616), respectively. The results of this study showed that the performance of newly prepared pigments was comparable to that of commercial pigments currently in use in the inks industry. Practical implications LR and its new derivative pigments can be used in other different applications such as paper coating, crayon, rubber and paint industries. Originality/value The authors designed an efficient synthesis for some novel pigments. The synthesis technique is featured by a short reaction time, high yields and ease of use. The pigments developed would be good and cost-effective substitute for the original commercially available and expensive pigments used in the inks industry.