The Uses of Iron (II) Oxide

The Uses of Iron (II) Oxide

By: Isabel Rimando

Iron (II) oxide [FeO]

Not to be confused with iron (III) oxide (rust)

Iron (II) oxide [FeO]

aka: hematite or ferrous oxide

Found in 5% of the Earth’s crust

StructureRock salt structure

Made from iron (metal) and oxygen (nonmetal)

Ionic bond

Used for… Cave paintings

Paleolithic paintings at Lascaux [pronounced lasko]

Today… Tattoos!

Today…

Used as a pigment in tattoo ink

Safe to be used by humans

Tattoo inkPigment is made of particles

Needs dispersal agent to help it flow easily and spread evenly

Alcohol prevents growth of pathogens

Tattoo ink Adding water can create gray tones

Tattoo inkInserted with a needle in order to remain in the skin

Tattoo inkPermanent, but will fade over time

Body’s immune system will try to break down particles and remove it from the skin

Large pigment molecules will remain embedded

Not just for tattoos…Also good for cosmetics Mascara Eye shadow

Not just for tattoos…Also good for cosmetics Non-toxic Water-repellant Doesn’t run or bleed

Iron (II) oxide is cool!!

*As long as you can make it look good

Iron (II) oxide is cool!!