Ferric oxide yellow

Ferric oxide yellow (CAS 51274-00-1), also marketed as C.I. Pigment Yellow 42 and approved as food colorant E172iii, is a synthetic inorganic iron oxide pigment. It delivers stable yellow coloration across a broad range of industrial and food applications. Its resistance to heat, light, and chemical degradation makes it a preferred colorant for long-term color integrity.

In architectural coatings and construction materials, including concrete and paving products, it provides consistent earth-tone yellows that resist UV fading and weathering. Plastics compounders incorporate it into masterbatches for packaging films and molded parts where processing temperatures would degrade organic alternatives.

Food manufacturers use the E172iii-grade to color confectionery coatings, bakery products, and dietary supplements within permitted limits for safe consumption. Printing inks and industrial sealants also rely on this pigment for opacity and color consistency in high-volume production runs across various global markets.

Ferric oxide yellow is supplied as a fine dry powder, with micronized grades available for applications requiring tighter particle size distribution and dispersion. Standard commercial grades include food-grade, cosmetic-grade, and technical-grade. Specifications such as USP and Ph.Eur. are available for pharmaceutical and regulated food applications.