Synthesis and characterization of MNd2W2O10 (M = Ni, Cu, Co, Zn) as new ceramic pigments

New compounds based on tungstate were synthesized as environmentally friendly inorganic pigments for ceramic glazes. The pigments have been prepared by means of the solid state reaction. The intermediate compounds MWO4 were synthesized using two methods of preparation: solid state reaction and precipitation. This work is focused on mixed d-electron metal and neodymium (III) tungstate. The optimum conditions for synthesis of intermediate products MWO4 (M = Ni, Zn, Co, Cu), Nd2WO6 and final products MNd2W2O10 were determined by TG/DTA analysis of starting mixtures. The thermal stability of MNd2W2O10 (M = Ni, Zn, Co, Cu) was also determined by TG/DTA methods and by a heating microscope with automatic image analysis. Subsequent research was focused on the influence of d-electron metal tungstates on the colour properties of the MNd2W2O10 pigments. All samples were found in interesting colour hues that were obtained for Ni – green-yellow and for Zn – light violet, Cu – yellow and Co – blue.