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 Iron Oxides have been used since prehistoric times (mainly the red shades). They were first used by cavemen to leave testimony of their presence in cave dwellings including animal drawings to ensure bountiful hunting. The first cave drawing was found in the Saubia Mountains (Germany), Lascaux (France) and Altamira (Spain). They were painted between 40,000 and 10,000 BC. Iron Oxide rich mineral clays provided the colors used. Iron Oxide was later found in Neolithic ceramic, Renaissance or Impressionist paintings, bricks of early cities, etc. Natural Iron Oxides are still used nowadays. However, synthetic types are much more popular nowadays because of their higher pigment performance. Their widespread use is due to their natural shade and outstanding chemical, physical and technical properties, which make them essential in many applications. |
