Cerium-based pigments represent a new generation of environmentally friendly and non-toxic materials, making them particularly valuable in contemporary art and outdoor applications. In this lesson, we will analyze cerium sulfide red, a pigment notable for its resistance, low cost, and vibrant color. The lesson also examines the spectral characteristics of cerium using XRF spectroscopy and explores its broader applications, including in neodymium magnets.
Objectives
- Understand the significance of cerium-based pigments in contemporary art and outdoor applications.
- Analyze the spectral features of cerium sulfide red and cerium oxide using XRF spectroscopy.
- Explore additional applications of cerium, such as its use in magnets.
Materials
- Cerium sulfide red pigment sample in Pigments Checker – Modern Art.
- Cerium oxide powder.
Lesson Plan
- Introduction to Cerium in Pigments: Discuss the unique properties of cerium, emphasizing its non-toxic nature, environmental friendliness, and cost-effectiveness. Highlight its role in creating durable pigments for outdoor and artistic applications.
- Baseline Analysis: Examine the XRF spectrum of cerium oxide to identify key peaks, including the K alpha and L lines, establishing a reference for cerium.
- Pigment Analysis: Analyze cerium sulfide red, identifying its spectral features, including intense L lines and smaller K alpha peaks.
- Broader Applications: Compare the spectrum of cerium oxide with that of a neodymium magnet to demonstrate cerium’s role in replacing neodymium, creating less expensive but functional magnets.
