Characterization and properties of new color-tunable hybrid pigments based on layered double hydroxides (LDH) and 1,2-dihydroxyanthraquinone dye

The color changes of layered double hydroxides characterized by variable ratios of magnesium and aluminum (Mg:Al 30:70; Mg:Al 70:30) after modification with Alizarin dye. [Display omitted] •Novel method for preparation of the color-tunable hybrid pigments.•Interactions between Alizarin and particular ions present in the LDH brucite layers were studied.•Pigments showed good color characteristics and high chemical resistance in polymer composites. In this paper a novel, simple method for synthesis of lake pigments based on 1,2-dihydroxyanthraquinone dye and LDH carbonates was proposed. LDHs were modified with 1,2-dihydroxyanthraquinone, transforming the soluble dye into a new kind of hybrid lake. In result, the solvent resistance and photostability of the chromophore were improved, which may be attributed to strong dye–LDH interactions. TOF-SIMS technique was used for the first time to confirm the role of C14H7O4Mg+ and C14H6O5Al− ions in the formation of the hybrids. Alizarin lakes have been recognized as a new class of colorants which demonstrated good color characteristics and chemical stability.