Preparation of submicron-sized ZnFe2-xCrxO4 (x = 0.4, 0.8) via a two-step method and evaluation of the corresponding ceramic inks

Highlights: • Submicron-sized ZnFe_2-xCr_xO₄ is prepared via a combustion assisted two-step method. • Milling process of ZnFe_2-xCr_xO₄ pigment into ceramic ink is researched. • ZnFe_2-xCr_xO₄ pigment presents superb grindability. • The ink shows superior coloring performance and good printing performance. In this work, submicron-sized ZnFe_2-xCr_xO₄ (x = 0.4, 0.8) pigments were synthesized by a combustion assisted two-step method. The samples and corresponding ceramic inks are investigated by XRD, SEM, TEM, colorimeter, and laser particle size analyzer. The grindability of the pigments and the printing performance (rheological properties, surface tension, filterability and storage stability) of the inks are evaluated. Our research reveals that although the calcination temperature in the present method is 300 °C lower than the conventional solid-state reaction route, the as-prepared samples belong to a pure spinel phase and present highly saturated reddish-brown tone. Compared to the samples prepared from solid-state reaction route, the synthesized submicron-sized pigments exhibit superior grindability. The corresponding ceramic inks present excellent coloring ability, filterability and storage stability. Our work confirms that the submicron-sized ZnFe_2-xCr_xO₄ pigments synthesized by the combustion assisted two-step method are quite suitable for ZnFe_2-xCr_xO₄-based reddish-brown ceramic inks.