PR 179 – perylene maroon

This class of pigments was discovered in 1913 and made available as a lake pigment from 1957 for watercolors and automobile paints

Manufacturer/ product code:  Kremer / 23500
Chemical Description:  perylene
Color: red
Color Index: PR 179
Date:  1913

PR 179 – Perylene Maroon is a modern synthetic organic pigment in the perylene family, celebrated for its deep, dark red to maroon hue with a subtle bluish undertone. As a member of the perylene pigments, PR 179 is highly valued for its exceptional lightfastness, chemical resistance, and heat stability, making it suitable for demanding applications in both artistic and industrial contexts.

Chemically, PR 179 is based on the perylene tetracarboxylic diimide structure, which provides strong chromophoric stability and a dense, intense color. This molecular framework ensures resistance to acids, alkalis, and most solvents, as well as excellent thermal stability, allowing its use in high-performance coatings, plastics, automotive finishes, and printing inks. The pigment’s stability also makes it suitable for long-lasting artworks in oil, acrylic, and watercolor media.

In artistic applications, PR 179 exhibits high opacity and moderate to strong tinting strength, allowing it to be blended effectively with other pigments to produce deep, muted reds, warm browns, or complex purples. Its slightly cool undertone distinguishes it from warmer anthraquinone reds and makes it a preferred choice for achieving rich shadow tones or intense dark reds without resorting to black.

Overall, PR 179 – Perylene Maroon combines a sophisticated, deep color with remarkable chemical and lightfast stability. Its versatility, intensity, and durability make it a staple in both contemporary art materials and technical applications requiring a robust, enduring red pigment.