IRON OXIDES AND HYDROXIDES

Iron oxides and hydroxides are used in aquariums and water filters as a phosphate binder.
Iron oxides and hydroxides are studied for pollutant adsorption (e.g., arsenic, lead) in contaminated waters.
Iron oxides and hydroxides is utilized in magnetic data storage (γ/maghemite), MRI contrast agents, photocatalysis, and hydrogen production.

CAS Number: 1310‑14‑1 (monohydrate), 20344‑49‑4 (anhydrous)
EC Number:  215‑176‑6 
Compound Formula: FeHO2 / FeO(OH)
Molecular Weight: 88.85

SYNONYMS:
Ferric oxyhydroxide, goethite, hydrous ferric oxide, iron(III) hydroxide, yellow iron oxide, Pigment Yellow 42, metaferric acid, Iron hydroxide oxide, Iron oxyhydroxide, Hydroxy(oxo)iron, Ferric hydroxide oxide, Goethite, iron oxyydroxide, Ferric acid, Iron(III) oxide-hydroxide, FeOH₃, CAS 1310-14-1, yellow iron oxide

Iron oxides and hydroxides are typically 20-40 nanometers (nm) with specific surface area (SSA) in the 30 - 50 m²/g range and also available with an average particle size of 100 nm range with a specific surface area of approximately 7 m²/g.
Iron oxides and hydroxides are also available in ultra high purity and high purity, transparent, and coated and dispersed forms.

Iron oxides and hydroxides are also available as a dispersion through the AE Nanofluid production group.
Nanofluids are generally defined as suspended nanoparticles in solution either using surfactant or surface charge technology.
Nanofluid dispersion and coating selection technical guidance is also available.

Other nanostructures include nanorods, nanowhiskers, nanohorns, nanopyramids and other nanocomposites.
Surface functionalized nanoparticles allow for the particles to be preferentially adsorbed at the surface interface using chemically bound polymers.

Iron oxide is a very useful and special material that is used in a wide variety of industries.
Iron oxide has many ways of being used that are of great help both in the industry and in the protection of the environment.
The extraction of Iron oxides and hydroxides can be done in different ways, including the extraction of minerals, crystallization, leaching and precipitation or electrolysis, each with its particularities depending on the specific type of compound and the source of the mineral.

Iron oxides and hydroxides show a remarkable versatility and relevance in multiple industrial and environmental sectors, underlining their importance in daily life and in technological advancement and industrial solutions.
The continuous exploration and discovery of new applications of these iron compounds will open doors to new solutions and discoveries that will benefit society and industry in the future.

Iron oxides (Fe₂O₃) and hydroxides (FeO(OH), Fe(OH)₃) form a group of widely used, chemically stable, non-toxic minerals and pigments.
They play key roles in:
*Metallurgy (iron extraction)
*Pigments and coatings
*Cosmetics and food coloring
*Water treatment and adsorption
*High-end technologies (nanoparticles, remediation, electronics).

Iron oxides and hydroxides are recognized for their safety, environmental friendliness, and functional versatility.
Handling Iron oxides and hydroxides is safe with standard industrial hygiene practices.

Iron oxides and hydroxides, commonly known as iron oxide, is an additive and pigment widely found in various industries and applications.
Iron oxides and hydroxides can be found in the forms of E172(i) – Black iron oxide, E172(ii) – Red iron oxide, and E172(iii) – Yellow iron oxide.

Iron oxides and hydroxides are obtained from iron powder and are often synthesized from natural minerals or through chemical reactions, ensuring purity and consistency for various uses.

USES and APPLICATIONS of IRON OXIDES AND HYDROXIDES:
Metallurgy & Pigments uses of Iron oxides and hydroxides: Fe₂O₃: Major iron ore (hematite) for steel production.
All types: Iron oxides and hydroxides are widely used as pigments—red, yellow, black—for paints, coatings, construction materials, plastics, cosmetics; prized for being inexpensive and non-toxic.

Cosmetics & Food Coloring uses of Iron oxides and hydroxides: FeO(OH): FDA-approved yellow pigment (Pigment Yellow 42) in cosmetics & tattoo inks.
Fe₂O₃: Common cosmetic pigment; classified non-toxic.
Environmental & Water Treatment: FeO(OH): Iron oxides and hydroxides are used in aquariums and water filters as a phosphate binder.

Iron hydroxides: Iron oxides and hydroxides are studied for pollutant adsorption (e.g., arsenic, lead) in contaminated waters.
Advanced Technologies: Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles: Iron oxides and hydroxides is utilized in magnetic data storage (γ/maghemite), MRI contrast agents, photocatalysis, and hydrogen production.

FeO(OH)/Fe₂O₃: Iron oxides and hydroxides is investigated for battery electrodes (FeO(OH) → Fe₂O₃→Fe), supercapacitors, and environmental remediation.
Ceramic and Glass Industry: In the field of ceramics and glass, Iron oxide  confers color and resistance, allowing the creation of unique and durable pieces.

Steel Industry: Iron oxide is, on the one hand, raw material for the steel industry, and on the other a key participant in the protection and treatment of steel structures in the form of protective paints, helping to combat corrosion and prolong the useful life of these materials.
Animal Feed: In animal nutrition, Iron oxide  serves as a mineral supplement, contributing to the well-being and optimal development of livestock.

Water Treatment: Iron oxide is effective in removing impurities and water treatment, ensuring a safe and sustainable water quality.
Pharmaceutical Industry: In the pharmaceutical sector, Iron oxide  is used in various formulations, supporting the creation of safe and effective drugs.

Iron oxides and hydroxides are iron compounds with significant differences in their structure and properties, which give them different utilities in various industrial and environmental sectors.
Iron Oxide is characterized by its stability, resistance to corrosion and its versatility in various industries such as cement, paints, ceramics, steel, and cosmetics, among others.

On the other hand, Iron Hydroxide is a molecular compound, is recognized for its ability to absorb contaminants from water, which makes it invaluable in the treatment of wastewater and drinking water.
Iron Hydroxide also has applications in the paint, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and paper and textile industries, thanks to its safety profile and variety of shades that it can offer.

At first glance, Iron oxides and hydroxides may seem similar, but their differences in composition, properties and uses are essential for numerous applications.
Iron oxides and hydroxides are known for their vibrant shades, ranging from red, yellow, and brown to black, and are extensively used in food products, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and even in artistic and industrial applications.

-Cement Industry uses of Iron oxide:
Iron oxide plays a stellar role in the cement industry, providing color and character to a variety of constructions, from walls and pavements to terraces and tiles.
Iron oxide's use in mortars, grouts and stuccos enhances the aesthetics and durability of these materials.

-Paint Industry uses of Iron oxide:
Its high tinting power and stability make Iron oxide  an exceptional pigment for the paint industry, offering a range of shades and guaranteeing color retention over time.
Whether in decorative paints, enamels or priming processes, iron oxide stands out for its reliability and superior performance.

-Colorant in Cosmetics uses of Iron oxide : 
Its ability to provide color, along with its safety profile, makes Iron oxide  a valuable resource in the cosmetic industry, providing color in a variety of products from makeup to tattoo inks.
These applications highlight the relevance and versatility of iron oxide, a compound that continues to play a central role in technological advances and industrial solutions.

-Food Industry uses of Iron oxides and hydroxides:
Iron oxides and hydroxides are approved for use as a food additive in many countries, where they serve as a coloring agent.
Iron oxides and hydroxides' vibrant shades enhance the appearance of confectionery, bakery products, and coatings, making them more appealing to consumers.

-Cosmetics and Personal Care Products uses of Iron oxides and hydroxides:
In the cosmetics industry, Iron oxides and hydroxides are valued for their non-toxic, stable, and vivid coloring properties.
Iron oxides and hydroxides are a key ingredient in products such as eyeshadows, blushes, lipsticks, and sunscreens, offering a wide range of colors, from natural-looking shades to bold tones.

-Pharmaceutical uses of Iron oxides and hydroxides:
Iron oxide is frequently used in pharmaceutical products as a coloring agent for tablets and capsules.
It helps in identifying and differentiating medications and plays a role in making medicines visually appealing and acceptable to patients.

-Industrial and Artistic Applications of Iron oxides and hydroxides:
Beyond consumables and cosmetics, Iron oxides and hydroxides finds applications in industrial sectors and art.
In construction, Iron oxides and hydroxides are used to color concrete and bricks, providing them with a durable and aesthetic finish.
In the art world, iron oxide pigments are used in paints and coatings, valued for their rich colors and stability over time.

BENEFITS OF IRON HYDROXIDES:
We find that compounds such as iron hydroxide, are very useful in different industrial and environmental sectors.
Iron hydroxide, by its shape and special characteristics, plays an important role in helping in many necessary processes in different industries.

Below, some of the main ways in which Iron hydroxide helps are explained, showing how valuable and versatile it is both in our day to day and in the industry.

*Treatment of Wastewater and Drinking Water:
Iron hydroxide not only plays a crucial role in water purification, but also facilitates the effective removal of contaminants such as phosphates and arsenic.
Its ability to absorb impurities makes Iron hydroxide an invaluable resource in water treatment.

*Pigments in Paints and Inks:
The paint and ink industry benefits greatly from the range of colors that goethite can offer.
Its stability and resistance to fading make Iron hydroxide a preferred choice for pigments.

*Cosmetic Industry:
The safety and variety of shades that iron hydroxide provides make it essential in the formulation of cosmetic products and tattoo inks.

*Pharmaceutical Industry:
In the pharmaceutical industry, iron hydroxide is used in certain formulations due to its proven safety and efficacy profile.

*Paper and Textile Production:
In paper and textile production, Iron hydroxide contributes to the quality of the product, and in some cases, to its aesthetics.

*Treatment of Industrial Effluents:
Its ability to neutralize and eliminate harmful substances makes Iron hydroxide an ally in the treatment of industrial effluents.

These applications highlight the versatility and importance of iron hydroxide in our daily life and in the industry.
Iron hydroxide will continue to be an essential resource to face many industrial and environmental challenges in the coming years.

CHARACTERISTICS & BENEFITS OF IRON OXIDES AND HYDROXIDES:
*Chemical stability: 
Resilient to light, heat, moisture, and UV radiation.

*Non-toxic & biocompatible: 
Safe in cosmetics and environmental uses.

*Strong pigmenting power: 
High hiding power and colorfastness across a range of substrates.

*Adsorptive properties: 
Excellent for removing heavy metals, phosphate, and pollutants in water.

*Versatility in crystal forms: 
The diversity in structures leads to varied physical behaviors and functionalities.

WHAT IS THE RECOMMENDED DAILY DOSE?
The safety of iron oxide in foods is well-regulated, and its use is generally considered safe within prescribed limits.
The safety of E172 has been widely studied, especially in its applications as a food additive and cosmetic ingredient.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has established guidelines for the safe use of this additive in the European region.
When used within the recommended limits, namely, 0.5 mg/kg body weight per day, iron oxides and hydroxides are considered safe and non-toxic.

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF IRON OXIDE:
The composition of iron oxide, also called ferric oxide or Fe2O3, is a chemical compound formed by iron and oxygen.
Its crystalline structure gives Iron oxide stability and resistance to corrosion.

Iron oxide, red, can have yellowish or bluish undertones depending on its purity as well as its particle size and shape.
Iron oxide can be of various colors, from red to yellow, depending on the impurities it presents.
This is the form of oxide commonly seen in iron and steel structures that are oxidized.

Iron oxide damages and alters structures from bridges to car bodies, so it is considered highly destructive in certain circumstances, as for other utilities it is an essential compound.
A peculiarity is that due to its electronic configuration, iron oxide is a chemical compound that does not conduct electricity.

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF IRON HYDROXIDE:
Iron hydroxide is formed by oxygen, iron and hydrogen.
Iron hydroxide can be found in anhydrous form, expressed its formula in this way FeO(OH) or hydrated of which formula is FeO(OH)·nH2O, commonly Fe(OH)3.

Iron hydroxide is formed when iron is exposed to oxygen and water.
Iron hydroxide is popular for its ability to absorb contaminants from water, such as heavy metals.

EXTRACTION OF IRON OXIDE (FE2O3):
Natural iron oxide is extracted from mines, once extracted, this material goes through a selection process where it is classified by its iron oxide content, then it goes to the grinding and classification phase and finally to the packaging phase, which then goes to be marketed in the different industrial markets.

As for synthetic iron oxide, it is produced by various reaction routes.
The oldest known is the Laux route, in which the pigment is a by-product of the aniline production reaction.

The Laux process offers a wide range of colors, with special strength in the medium and bluish red tones, as well as a relatively hard consistency of the primary particles.
The strong point of the Copperas and Penniman routes lies in their bright and yellowish color space, which can only be achieved to a limited extent by the Laux process.

EXTRACTION OF IRON HYDROXIDE:
Natural iron hydroxide, commonly known as goethite (FeOOH), can be extracted in various ways, depending on its form and the source from which it is obtained.
Iron hydroxide is commonly found in nature in the form of minerals such as goethite or lepidocrocite.

Goethite can also be synthesized, like iron oxide, by various crystallization routes.
The materials thus obtained are usually used as pigments for their high purity and homogeneity in particle size and shape.
Among the processes of synthesis of iron hydroxide or Fe(OH)3 we can find the leaching process or the electrolysis.

*Leaching process:
Once we have the mineral, Iron hydroxide is ground to increase the contact surface.
Once ground, Iron hydroxide is treated with chemicals (such as hydrochloric acid) to dissolve the iron hydroxide in a solution.
By a precipitation process, the solution is neutralized causing the precipitation of the iron hydroxide, once the solution is precipitated, it is filtered and dried to obtain the final product.

*Electrolysis:
Electrolysis consists of preparing a salt solution that contains iron ions.
By applying electricity through the solution, the iron ions are reduced and form solid iron hydroxide at the cathode, which is then collected and prepared for marketing.
All these methods can vary depending on the specific type of iron hydroxide and the source of the mineral.

PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of IRON OXIDES AND HYDROXIDES:
Appearance: Dark orange to brown opaque crystals; odorless
Formula: FeO(OH); density ~4.25 g/cm³
Solubility: Insoluble at pH 7; Ksp ≈ 2.79×10⁻³⁹
Crystal structure: Orthorhombic (goethite), tetragonal (akaganeite)
Compound Formula: FeHO2
Molecular Weight: 88.85
Appearance: orange crystals
Melting Point: 135 °C (275 °F)
Boiling Point: N/A
Density: N/A

Solubility in H2O: N/A
Exact Mass: 88.932596
Monoisotopic Mass: 88.932596
Linear Formula: Fe(OH)O
PubChem CID: 91502
MDL Number: MFCD00064782
EC No.: 243-746-4
IUPAC Name: hydroxy(oxo)iron

Beilstein/Reaxys No.: N/A
SMILES: O=[Fe]O
InChI Identifier: InChI=1S/Fe.H2O.O/h;1H2;/q+1;;/p-1
InChI Key: AEIXRCIKZIZYPM-UHFFFAOYSA-M
Linear Formula: FeHO2
UNSPSC Code: 12352302
PubChem Substance ID: 329768530
NACRES: NA.23

FIRST AID MEASURES of IRON OXIDES AND HYDROXIDES:
-Description of first-aid measures
*General advice:
Show this material safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
*If inhaled:
After inhalation: 
Fresh air.
*In case of skin contact: 
Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. 
Rinse skin with
water/ shower.
*In case of eye contact:
After eye contact: 
Rinse out with plenty of water. 
Call in ophthalmologist. 
Remove contact lenses.
*If swallowed:
After swallowing: 
Immediately make victim drink water (two glasses at most). 
Consult a physician.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed.
No data available

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of IRON OXIDES AND HYDROXIDES:
-Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
-Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Cover drains. 
Collect, bind, and pump off spills. 
Observe possible material restrictions. 
Take up dry. 
Dispose of properly. 
Clean up affected area.

FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of IRON OXIDES AND HYDROXIDES:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Carbon dioxide (CO2) 
Foam 
Dry powder
*Unsuitable extinguishing media:
For this substance/mixture no limitations of extinguishing agents are given.
-Further information:
Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.

EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of IRON OXIDES AND HYDROXIDES:
-Control parameters:
--Ingredients with workplace control parameters:
-Exposure controls:
--Personal protective equipment:
*Eye/face protection:
Use equipment for eye protection. 
Safety glasses
*Body Protection:
protective clothing
*Respiratory protection:
Recommended Filter type: Filter A 
-Control of environmental exposure:
Do not let product enter drains.

HANDLING and STORAGE of IRON OXIDES AND HYDROXIDES:
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Tightly closed. 
Dry.

STABILITY and REACTIVITY of IRON OXIDES AND HYDROXIDES:
-Chemical stability:
The product is chemically stable under standard ambient conditions (room temperature).
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available