Synthesis and properties of high chroma (Ce,Pr)-ZrSiO4 yellow pigments via an in-situ molten salt-assisted method

In this study, high chroma Ce and Pr co-doped zircon-yellow ceramic pigments were synthesized via an in-situ molten salt-assisted method. The effects of Pr doping content and Si/Zr molar ratio on the color performance, phase composition, and microstructure of the pigments were systematically investigated. The results indicated that the introduced of Pr cations not only serve as the chromogenic center but also promotes the crystallization of zircon. The optimal color performance of the sample was achieved when the Pr doping content was 0.07 and the Si/Zr molar ratio was 1.05, with corresponding CIELAB values of L∗  = 77.29, a∗  = 13.78, b∗  = 76.12, and C∗  = 77.36. This color performance was remarkably superior to that of a commercially available high-grade yellow pigment ( L∗  = 82.04, a∗  = −1.62, b∗  = 56.28, and C∗  = 56.30). The synthesized pigment exhibited remarkably coloring performance, a small particle size with a narrow distribution (D 10  = 1.15 μm, D 50  = 3.72 μm, and D 90  = 7.88 μm), and good dispersibility. The in-situ molten salt-assisted method employed in this study offers advantages such as low calcination temperature, reduced environmental impact, and simple operation. This method provides a reliable strategy for the eco-friendly synthesis of high performance yellow ceramic pigments used in premium ceramic decoration.