Comparative Analysis of the Advantages and Disadvantages of Utilizing Spirulina-Derived Pigment as a Bio-Based Colorant for Wood Impregnator

Abstract

The aim of this work was to examine the advantages and disadvantages of using spirulina-derived pigment as a bio-based colorant for wood impregnators. It investigated the effects of three different quantities of spirulina granules on the aesthetic properties and durability of a water-based wood impregnator. The impact of this environmental friendly pigment on the overall appearance of the coatings was estimated through colorimetric measurements and observations using an optical microscope. The durability of the coatings with varying amounts of spirulina was assessed by subjecting the samples to UV-B radiation and cyclic thermal shocks and analyzing them using infrared spectroscopy and colorimetric inspections. Furthermore, the influence of additive concentration on the coating’s barrier efficiency was examined through liquid resistance and water uptake tests. Finally, the scrub test was carried out to assess the effect of the spirulina pigment on the abrasion resistance properties of the protective layers. Ultimately, this study emphasized the remarkable coloration achieved through the use of the spirulina-based additive. However, the pigment derived from natural sources exhibited significant concerns associated with deterioration caused by UV-B radiation or the fading of the phycocyanin component found in spirulina. Thus, the work underscores the importance of implementing appropriate measures to safeguard the bio-based pigment from external factors such as temperature, solar radiation, and liquids.

Assessing the Impact of Sepiolite-Based Bio-Pigment Infused with Indigo Extract on Appearance and Durability of Water-Based White Primer

“…Similarly, the delta gloss values remain relatively low, affirming the samples' good aesthetic uniformity. In essence, the pigment proves its suitability for outdoor applications, which often pose the greatest challenges for natural and bio-based pigments [30,32,86]. Its exceptional resistance enables the sepiolite-based powder to effectively shield the coloring extract within, maintaining its vibrant blue hue intact.…”

“…The aim is to align with principles of the circular economy and decrease the environmental footprint associated with new coloring additives. For example, spirulina [29,32] and turmeric [30] extracts have demonstrated impressive durability and promise when incorporated into wood paints. Numerous studies have focused on examining the dyeing potential of leftover fruit and vegetable materials [33], as well as assessing how Aspergillus carbonarius can be used in processing them to create natural pigments [34].…”

Eco-Friendly Multilayer Coating Harnessing the Functional Features of Curcuma-Based Pigment and Rice Bran Wax as a Hydrophobic Filler

“…Figure 1 depicts the visual representation of the two variants of green materials incorporated into the waterborne acrylic bio-based paint. Curcuma (Figure 1a) is observed as irregularly shaped granules, typical of bio-based organic powders [42], with dimensions generally larger than 60 µm. Although the granule sizes vary significantly, they remain within the manufacturer's specified range of 400 µm or less, as stated in the technical data sheet.…”

“…As the industry progressively explores environmentally friendly and versatile substitutes for traditional synthetic additives [33], which often lack considerations for environmental sustainability during production [34], scientific investigation is delving into the utilization of organic supplements in coatings [35]. In pursuit of this goal, scientists have recently studied the impacts of integrating a range of components into wood coatings, including linseed oil [36], cellulose fibers [37], colorants derived from wood byproducts [38], microbial coloring [39], and dyes extracted from fungi [40] and microalgae [41,42].…”

Assessing the Impact of Sepiolite-Based Bio-Pigment Infused With Indigo Extract on Appearance and Durability of Water-Based White Primer

“…The aim is to align with principles of the circular economy and decrease the environmental footprint associated with new coloring additives. For example, spirulina [29,32] and turmeric [30] extracts have demonstrated impressive durability and promise when incorporated into wood paints. Numerous studies have focused on examining the dyeing potential of leftover fruit and vegetable materials [33], as well as assessing how Aspergillus carbonarius can be used in processing them to create natural pigments [34].…”