Zenco Systems LtdChemical Division
+254114591982info@zencochemicals.comChat on WhatsAppGet a Quote

Iron Oxide Red

Iron Oxide Red is a durable pigment used for coloring coatings, plastics, and construction materials.

Iron Oxide Red is an inorganic pigment primarily composed of iron(III) oxide (Fe₂O₃), which imparts a stable, vibrant red color to various industrial products.

Packaging

25kg bags, 200kg drums

Supply Region

East Africa, Kenya

Supplier

Zenco Systems Ltd

What is Iron Oxide Red?

Iron Oxide Red is an inorganic pigment primarily composed of iron(III) oxide (Fe₂O₃), which imparts a stable, vibrant red color to various industrial products. It is highly valued for its exceptional durability, resistance to UV light, heat, and chemicals, making it a preferred pigment for applications requiring long-lasting color retention.

Across East Africa—including Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania—Iron Oxide Red plays a critical role in industries such as construction, coatings, plastics, and cosmetics. Its ability to consistently deliver intense red coloration while maintaining stability under harsh environmental conditions makes it an essential raw material for manufacturers.

Procurement professionals look for pigments that combine reliability in performance with consistent supply. Zenco Systems Ltd supplies Iron Oxide Red with assured quality and tailored packaging to meet the specific requirements of those industrial sectors relying on precise pigmentation consistency and timely delivery within the East African region.

Iron Oxide Red: Detailed Product Overview

Iron Oxide Red is chemically identified as Iron(III) oxide with the formula Fe₂O₃ and CAS number 1309-37-1. It exists as a finely milled red powder, an iron oxide mineral that occurs naturally but is widely produced synthetically to ensure purity and consistency. The pigment owes its color to the electronic structure of the ferric iron ions and the oxide lattice which absorbs light in specific wavelengths.

Its inorganic nature provides excellent stability, resisting photodegradation under sunlight and chemical attacks, unlike many organic pigments which can fade or degrade. This makes it especially valuable in exterior applications such as architectural coatings and concrete pigmentation where long-term appearance retention is critical.

In terms of performance, Iron Oxide Red is non-reactive, non-toxic, and thermally stable, withstanding temperatures up to 350°C without losing color integrity. It disperses well in different carrier media including water-based and solvent-based paints, plastics, and concrete mixes, ensuring even color distribution. The pigment’s particle size and surface treatment can be tailored to improve compatibility with specific binders and optimize opacity and tinting strength.

For procurement, confirming the pigment’s purity and grade is essential, as these affect color strength and stability. Zenco Systems Ltd provides specification details on request and supports industrial customers with technical advice to match pigment grade with their end-use process requirements. Our supply chain capabilities enable consistent delivery schedules throughout Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, ensuring that production lines remain uninterrupted.

Applications and Uses of Iron Oxide Red

Pigment for Coatings

Iron Oxide Red is widely used as a colorant in architectural and industrial coatings. Its excellent UV resistance prevents color fading in outdoor paints. It disperses evenly in both solvent- and water-based systems, providing vibrant, fade-resistant color that enhances aesthetic appeal and product durability.

Concrete and Construction Coloring

This pigment is mixed directly into concrete or mortar to produce colored building materials like paving stones, tiles, and decorative façades. Iron Oxide Red maintains its color even after curing and exposure to weather, making it essential for durable, visually consistent construction projects in East Africa.

Plastic Masterbatches

Iron Oxide Red is incorporated into plastic masterbatches used in injection molding and extrusion processes. It delivers uniform red coloration without affecting the mechanical properties of polymers. The pigment’s resistance to heat ensures stable color during plastic processing temperatures.

Cosmetic Coloration

Approved for use in some cosmetic products, Iron Oxide Red serves as a safe pigment for formulations like lipsticks, blushes, and powders. Its non-toxic inorganic nature and color stability ensure safe, lasting coloration without chemical degradation.

Ceramics Coloring

In ceramics manufacturing, Iron Oxide Red is added to glazes and bodies to provide earthy red tones and enhance aesthetic finishes. Its high thermal stability allows it to withstand kiln firing temperatures without altering color.

Looking for alternatives for a specific process? Browse the full Paints & Coatings range or ask our technical team which grade fits your application.

Benefits and Advantages

Exceptional Color Durability

Iron Oxide Red offers superior resistance to light, heat, and chemical exposure compared to organic pigments. This means that products retain their red color and appearance over extended outdoor use or high-temperature conditions, reducing the need for frequent repainting or reprocessing.

Wide Industry Applicability

Its chemical inertness and stability make Iron Oxide Red suitable across coatings, construction materials, plastics, and cosmetics industries. Buyers benefit from a single pigment source that meets varied industry regulations and performance benchmarks.

Consistent Supply and Quality

Sourcing from Zenco Systems Ltd ensures access to a reliable supply chain capable of serving East African manufacturers with consistent pigment grades and packaging. This reduces production downtime risks and the variability that can occur with less dependable suppliers.

Non-Toxic and Environmentally Stable

Iron Oxide Red is an inert inorganic pigment free from harmful heavy metals. This enhances worker safety during handling and ensures compliance with environmental regulations for products like cosmetics and construction materials.

Packaging Information

Zenco Systems Ltd supplies Iron Oxide Red in industrial-standard packaging tailored for the East African markets. The pigment is available in 25kg polypropylene bags suitable for smaller production batches and tightly sealed 200kg drums for bulk industrial users. These packaging options facilitate efficient storage and handling while protecting the pigment from moisture contamination. Customized packaging can be arranged to meet specific requirements for large-scale operations or distributors in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and neighboring regions.

Standard formats: 25kg bags, 200kg drums

Storage and Handling

Store Iron Oxide Red in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from moisture and incompatible materials. The pigment is hygroscopic and can clump or degrade if exposed to humidity, so moisture-proof containers are essential. Avoid storing near strong acids or alkaline substances. Standard dust protection and personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks and gloves should be used during handling to minimize dust inhalation. When correctly stored in sealed containers, the pigment’s shelf life extends to several years without quality loss.

Safety Information

Iron Oxide Red is considered non-toxic and safe under normal handling conditions. However, inhalation of pigment dust should be avoided by using appropriate respiratory protective equipment. In case of skin or eye contact, rinse with plenty of water. The pigment is not classified as hazardous but refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by Zenco Systems Ltd for detailed handling, storage, and disposal instructions to comply with local regulatory requirements.

Technical Specifications

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
FormulaFe₂O₃
Packaging25kg bags, 200kg drums
AppearanceRed fine powder
CAS Number1309-37-1
Chemical NameIron(III) oxide
Storage ConditionsCool, dry place; protect from moisture

Applications

  • Pigment for coatings
  • Concrete and construction coloring
  • Plastic masterbatches
  • Cosmetic coloration
  • Ceramics colouring

Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
FormulaFe₂O₃
Packaging25kg bags, 200kg drums
AppearanceRed fine powder
CAS Number1309-37-1
Chemical NameIron(III) oxide
Storage ConditionsCool, dry place; protect from moisture

Product Features

  • - High lightfastness and UV resistance
  • - Thermally stable up to 350°C
  • - Non-toxic inorganic pigment
  • - Excellent chemical inertness
  • - Fine particulate consistency
  • - Good dispersion in multiple media

Industries Served

  • - Paints and coatings
  • - Construction materials
  • - Plastics manufacturing
  • - Cosmetics formulation
  • - Ceramics production

Product Overview

Frequently Asked Questions About Iron Oxide Red

What is Iron Oxide Red used for?

Iron Oxide Red is primarily used as a pigment for coloring coatings, concrete, plastics, ceramics, and some cosmetic products due to its durable, stable red coloration.

How is Iron Oxide Red applied in concrete?

It is added as a powder directly into concrete or mortar mixes before casting to produce colored building materials with long-lasting pigmentation.

Can Iron Oxide Red be used in food or pharmaceuticals?

Iron Oxide Red is generally not food-grade and should not be used in food or pharmaceutical applications unless specifically certified for such use.

What packaging sizes are available for procurement in East Africa?

Zenco Systems Ltd offers Iron Oxide Red in 25kg bags and 200kg drums, suited for both small and large-scale industrial users across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

How should Iron Oxide Red be stored to maintain quality?

Store in a dry, cool, and ventilated environment, protected from moisture to prevent clumping and degradation.

Is Iron Oxide Red safe to handle?

Yes, it is non-toxic but precautionary measures like dust masks and gloves are recommended to avoid inhalation and prolonged skin contact.

Do you supply Iron Oxide Red outside Kenya?

Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd supplies Iron Oxide Red reliably throughout East Africa, including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and neighboring countries.

What purity and grade levels are available?

Purity and grade depend on customer requirements; please confirm exact specifications with Zenco Systems Ltd when placing your order.

Related Products

More chemicals in Paints & Coatings

View category

Contact Hub

Select how you would like to reach Zenco desk:

WhatsApp

Quick response for pricing, quotations, and follow-up

RECOMMENDED

Call Us

+254114591982

DIRECT

Email

info@zencochemicals.com

AI Assistant

Product guidance, quotation prep, and category discovery