Cr2O3based

Cr2O3based refers to materials in which chromium(III) oxide (Cr2O3) is the dominant oxide phase. Such materials include pigments, ceramic and glass formulations, protective coatings, catalysts, and various composites in which Cr2O3 provides color, stability, or a functional role.

Structure and properties: Cr2O3 adopts a corundum-related structure and is highly chemically stable and hard. It is a wide-bandgap insulator with low electrical conductivity and is generally insoluble in water, offering good corrosion resistance. Cr2O3 is antiferromagnetic with a Néel temperature near 307 K. Doping or forming solid solutions with other oxides can tailor color, conductivity, or catalytic activity.

Synthesis and forms: Cr2O3-based materials are produced by calcination or solid-state reactions from chromium precursors, or by hydrothermal and sol-gel methods for fine powders and coatings. In practice, Cr2O3 is used as a green pigment (chromium oxide green) in paints, ceramics, and glass; it can be incorporated as a protective oxide layer on metals or as a support or active phase in catalysts. It also appears in ceramic composites and polishing compounds.

Applications and research: In industry, Cr2O3-based pigments provide durable color and UV stability. Cr2O3 serves as a corrosion-resistant coating and as a catalyst support. Research focuses on doping Cr2O3 with other oxides to modify magnetic, optical, or catalytic properties, and on creating Cr2O3-based thin films and composites for sensors, energy storage, and environmental catalysis.

Safety: Cr2O3 consists of Cr(III); it is less toxic than hexavalent chromium compounds, but inhalation or ingestion of Cr2O3 dust should be avoided, and proper handling and environmental controls apply.