Phthalocyanine Blue PB15:3 – Phthalo Blue Pigment: A Vibrant and Durable Choice for Artists

Phthalo Blue, Phthalocyanine Blue, PB15

Phthalo Blue, a vibrant and enduring synthetic pigment, has become a cornerstone in the palettes of artists worldwide. Known for its intense chromatic strength and exceptional lightfastness, this pigment offers unparalleled versatility and reliability. Its synthetic origin ensures consistent quality and availability. At the same time, its compatibility with various media—ranging from oils to acrylics and watercolors—enables artists to explore a broad spectrum of creative possibilities. Non-toxic and easy to work with, Phthalo Blue provides a brilliant hue and maintains its integrity over time, making it an indispensable choice for both professional and amateur artists seeking to create lasting works of art.

Origin and History

Phthalocyanine blue, also known as Phthalo Blue, is a synthetic pigment developed in the early 20th century. Discovered accidentally in 1927 during experiments aimed at synthesizing phthalimide, phthalocyanine blue quickly gained prominence due to its vivid hue and remarkable stability. In 1937, DuPont began producing copper phthalocyanine blue in the United States under the trade name Monastral Blue, following its launch in Great Britain and Germany in 1935. Its extraordinary tinting power quickly replaced Prussian and manganese blues in industrial coatings and, by the 1950s, artists’ colours. The β-modification (PB 15:3) sold here provides a greener undertone, preferred for modern landscape and seascape palettes. Today, it remains a staple in the palettes of artists and manufacturers worldwide.

Pigment Source

Phthalocyanine blue is derived from phthalocyanine, a complex organic compound with a copper ion at its core. The pigment is produced by heating phthalic anhydride, urea, and copper chloride or copper sulfate at high temperatures. The resulting compound is a crystalline, intensely colored substance that can be finely ground to produce the pigment. The synthetic nature of phthalocyanine blue ensures consistent quality and availability, unlike many natural pigments that can be subject to variability and scarcity.

The first forms of phthalocyanine blue, α (alpha) phase, did not form stable dispersions, especially in mixtures with rutile titanium, where the blue pigment tended to flocculate. The β (beta) phase and the improved stabilized α phase were more stable. Today, five different polymorphs have been identified—α, β, η, γ and χ.

Our pigment is a high-purity β-copper-phthalocyanine manufactured in Germany under ISO 9001 and REACH registration. After filtration, the presscake is jet-milled to 0.05 µm median particle size for easy dispersion.

Permanence and Compatibility

Phthalocyanine blue is renowned for its exceptional permanence and lightfastness, making it a highly stable pigment under various conditions. It resists fading and degradation over time, even when exposed to strong sunlight or adverse environmental factors. This stability makes it compatible with various media, including oil, acrylic, watercolor, and tempera. It also mixes well with other pigments, allowing artists to achieve a broad spectrum of colors without compromising the integrity of the final product.

PB 15:3 is rated ASTM Lightfastness I in all artist media and is exceptionally resistant to acids, alkalis, solvents, and over-painting. Its crystal structure remains stable up to 180 °C and under 3 500 h xenon testing, so it can be safely combined with fugitive organic reds without risk of colour shift.

Oil Absorption and Grinding

The oil absorption rate of phthalocyanine blue is moderate to high, requiring 52 grams of linseed oil for each 100 grams of pigment—about twice that of ultramarine—so stiffer binders or stand oil additions help maintain brushability. Its very high specific surface area (≈54 m² g⁻¹) yields smooth transparent glazes when mulled with bodied oil or walnut alkyd. A balanced amount of oil is required to achieve the desired consistency without becoming too runny or too thick. The pigment’s fine particle size ensures smooth grinding and dispersion in the chosen medium, resulting in a uniform, homogenous paint. Artists appreciate its ability to maintain a high chromatic strength even when used in small quantities.

Toxicity

Phthalocyanine blue is considered non-toxic and safe for use in artistic and industrial applications. Under normal usage conditions, it does not pose significant health risks through skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion. However, as with all pigments, it is advisable to handle phthalocyanine blue with care, using appropriate protective equipment such as gloves and masks, especially during processes that generate dust or fumes. 

Copper-phthalocyanine is considered non-toxic and is approved under U.S. FDA 21 CFR § 178.3297 for indirect food-contact plastics. Regular studio hygiene practices (avoiding dry-spraying and dust inhalation) are sufficient. Dispose of paint waste responsibly—copper traces can accumulate in waterways.

For more information on handling pigments safely, please visit How to Safely Handle Art Materials and Pigments.

Pigment Information
Color:	Blue
Pigment Classification:	Synthetic Organic
Colour Index:	Pigment Blue 15:3 (74160)
Chemical Name:	Cu-Phthalocyanine Blue, beta modified
Chemical Formula:	C32H16CuN8
Structural Formula:
CAS No.:	147-14-8
Series No.:	3
FDA Approved:	No
ASTM Lightfastness
Acrylic:	I
Oil:	I
Watercolor:	I
Physical Properties
Specific Surface:	54 m2/g
Density:	1.5 g/cm3
Bulk Density:	3.5 l/kg
Refractive Index:	1.50–1.55
Oil Absorption:	52 grams oil / 100 grams pigment
Heat Resistance:	180° C
Health and Safety	No acute or known chronic health hazards are associated with this product’s anticipated use (most chemicals are not thoroughly tested for chronic toxicity). Protect yourself against potentially unknown chronic hazards of this and other chemical products by keeping them out of your body. Do this by avoiding ingestion, excessive skin contact, and inhaling spraying mists, sanding dust, and vapors from heating. Conforms to ASTM D-4236.

For a detailed explanation of the terms in the table above, please visit Composition and Permanence.