Phthalocyanine Blue

Phthalocyanine blue

Phthalocyanine blue (heliogenic blue, permanent blue and monstrous blue) is a synthetically produced, organic, copper-containing pigment with an intense deep blue hue. The phthalocyanine dyes, which also include green pigments, were developed in the 1930s. Phthalocyanine blue is distinguished by great color power and opacity. The pigment is increasingly used in the painting profession as a substitute for Prussian blue. Phthalocyanine blue is a very "vibrant" and light pigment that can be a bit difficult to handle.

Phthalocyanine blue is light, - oil, - water, - and calcareous.

Lightfastness

8 (on a scale where 1 is poor, 8 is best.)

Color power

Very good.

Coverage

Very good.

Miscibility with other colors

Can be mixed with all colors.

Binders

Can be used with all binders. In aqueous mixtures it is advisable to make a color paste with 1 part isopropyl alcohol to 1 part water in order to better stir the pigment in the paint.

Areas of application

Can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Security

The pigment is termed as non-toxic, but as the pigment is very fine-grained and caraway-strong, it is recommended to use a dust mask and gloves.