Seven years ago, Mas Subramanian, a materials science professor at Oregon State University, was running experiments designed to create new materials for electronics. During those tests, he and his team hit on a more unexpected creation in the form of a vibrant new color they named YInMn blue. The pigment will be available to artists and manufacturers later this year through an agreement with the Ohio-based Shepherd Color Company, artnet
The pigment is the result of heating a mixture of black manganese oxide and other chemicals to almost 2000°F. The manganese ions absorb red and green wavelengths of light, producing a durable blue color that doesn’t fade in oil or water.
Black manganese oxide
“The basic crystal structure we’re using for these pigments was known before, but no one had ever considered using it for any commercial purpose, including pigments,” Subramanian said in a press release. The new pigment is made with all non-toxic ingredients. “Ever since the early Egyptians developed some of the first blue pigments, the pigment industry has been struggling to address problems with safety, toxicity and durability,” he says.
Since it’s unusually good at reflecting infrared light, it could be used in roofing materials, reflecting sunlight to keep buildings cool.
Source - https://news.artnet.com