This work has the purpose of studying compositions and applications of natural pigments found in Minas Gerais. A qualitative and quantitative study of some pigments collected in the region of Itabirito was carried out. The samples were named according to Munsell Color System and presented a variety of compositions. The minerals identified by X-ray diffraction and confirmed by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) were kaolinite, illite, talc and hematite, characteristic from this region. Analyses by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) produced semi-quantitative results of the elements present in the samples. Thermogravimetry indicated small weight loss referring to the humidity of the samples. Differential thermal analysis indicated a large amount of kaolinite in the red pigment when compared with the others. The iron content presents in the samples was determined by volumetric analysis and molecular ultraviolet-visible absorption spectrophotometry. The pigments presented good thermal stability indicating its potentiality of application in ceramic parts.
ceramic; pigments; mineral pigment; natural pigment
