top of page
Image by Billy Huynh
Sylvia Rose

Chemistry of Rust: Minerals & Pigment Colors

Rust, the reddish-brown coating that forms on iron or steel due to exposure to oxygen and moisture is a fascinating display of chemistry. Rust harbors a universe of minerals and components that contribute to its formation and vibrant colors.



rusty slabs

Rust forms on iron and its alloys when they are exposed to moisture and oxygen. This unique substance has practical implications and intriguing artistic possibilities. Understanding the chemistry of rust reveals magic of the minerals and components involved in its formation.


The formation of rust is a chemical reaction: oxidation. When iron or steel is exposed to oxygen and moisture, a series of reactions occurs, leading to production of iron oxides, commonly known as rust.



Salt water speeds up corrosion
Salt water speeds up corrosion

The presence of water accelerates this process by facilitating the transfer of electrons, leading to the rapid formation of rust on exposed surfaces. Over time, if left unchecked, rust can compromise the structural integrity of metal objects.


The natural occurrence of rust has historically been used to create paint and dye pigments. The oxides of rust are active in nature. Knowing the science behind formation of rust, the minerals rust comprises, its characteristic colors adds depth to the art of pigment creation.



Three colors possible from regular rust
Three of several earth colors possible from regular rust

What Is Rust? The Chemistry of Rust Formation


Rust is primarily the result of the oxidation of iron, specifically when it reacts with moisture and oxygen in the environment. The chemical process involved in rust formation can be simplified as follows:


Oxidation Reaction


The primary reaction involves iron (Fe) losing electrons (oxidation) when it comes into contact with water (H₂O) and oxygen (O₂). This can be represented in a simplified form:


[ 4Fe + 3O₂ + 6H₂O -> 4Fe(OH)₃ ]


Here, iron hydroxide (Fe(OH)₃) is formed.


Conversion to Rust


This iron hydroxide can further dehydrate and oxidize into iron oxides and hydroxides, leading to rust, primarily in the form of hydrated iron(III) oxide (Fe₂O₃·nH₂O), known commonly as rust. Depending on the environmental conditions, rust can also appear as iron(II) oxide (FeO), or iron(III) oxide (Fe₂O₃).



the rusty look


Minerals and Components of Rust


Rust is a complex mixture containing a variety of iron oxides and hydroxides. The primary minerals and compounds found in rust include:


  • Fe₂O₃ (Iron(III) Oxide): The main component, it gives rust its distinct red color.

  • FeO (Iron(II) Oxide): This can also contribute to the formation of rust, especially under low-oxygen conditions.

  • Fe(OH)₃ (Ferric Hydroxide): This tends to be found in the early stages of rust formation and is often present in hydrated forms.

  • Magnetite (Fe₃O₄): Sometimes present in older rust, this form of iron oxide can add black hues to the mixture.


Additionally, rust may incorporate various impurities and elements typically found in the environment, such as sulfur or chloride ions, which can influence both the formation process and the properties of the rust itself.



old rusty stuff

The Colors of Rust


The aesthetic appeal of rust goes beyond its basic reddish-brown hue. Depending on the specific compounds, environmental conditions, and the presence of other minerals, rust can be observed in various colors, including:


  • Red: The classic color attributed to iron(III) oxide, primarily found in stable, well-formed rust.

  • Yellow to Brown: These tones often arise from the presence of iron(III) hydroxide and may indicate varying degrees of hydration.

  • Black: Indicative of magnetite or iron(II) oxide, black rust can occur under certain conditions, particularly in the presence of high moisture content.



Colors and textures of rust
Colors and textures of rust

Other colors are possible. The famous caput mortuum of philosophers is created as an earthy shade of purple. Yesterday's secrets are today's synthetics. Certain modern substances create green rust.


Green rust can also be a product of carbon, sulfates and or chloride. Blue or green hues often come from corroded copper, bronze (88% copper + 12% tin) or brass (60% copper + 40% zinc). Here the copper elements create the prized pigment verdigris, once popular in painting.


Making Pigments from Rust


As a natural phenomenon, rust holds significant potential for artistic and practical applications, especially in pigments. The naturally occurring iron oxides can be harvested and processed to create a range of art materials.



several iron oxide colors
several iron oxide colors

Gathering Rust


Rust can be collected from aged, corroded metal surfaces. Once collected, the rust should be dried and ground into a fine powder. This is a period of experimentation.


Rust can also be quickly made by adding a caustic substance such as hydrogen peroxide to, for example, a small handful of nails in a glass flask or jar. The solution turns red almost immediately and darkens.


However it must be cooked to remove the hydrogen peroxide, which breaks down to oxygen and hydrogen when heated. It's heavier than water and evaporates last, causing a strong chemical smell.


If the substance is not boiled off it will bleach the rust, which is not necessarily a bad thing. Eventually it becomes a lovely yellow ocher.



ocher horses prehistoric
Prehistoric painting

Purification and Modification

After collecting and grinding the rust, to enhance color purity and quality, the rust powder can be washed to remove impurities, or blended with other natural components. Rust gathered from natural surfaces will come with some dirt. Washing and straining the powder removes much of it.


Rust is a complex matrix of minerals and compounds. Apart from iron oxides, rust can contain traces of other elements such as carbon, silicon, and sometimes even phosphorus, depending on environmental conditions and the composition of the metal being oxidized.



brilliant color
brilliant color corrosion

Creating Pigments


Rust pigments can be mixed with a binder (like gum arabic or linseed oil) to produce watercolors, oils, or other paint mediums. Different processing methods and the inclusion of other natural materials can create a variety of shades. Iron oxides are non-toxic but if gathered from the wild they might contain unwanted substances from other matter.


Rust has been used for centuries as a pigment in art such as painting and pottery, and other applications. The rich earthy tones of rust make it a valuable source of natural pigments used in paints, ceramics, body paint and cosmetics.



deep red ocher tones are found in lipstick, powder and other cosmetics
deep red ocher tones are found in lipstick, powder and other cosmetics

Rust is a treasure trove of minerals and compounds collaborating to create a visually striking natural phenomenon. Exploring the hidden chemistry of rust uncovers the artistry embedded in the process of corrosion and creation.


In alchemy, rust is the Greek ios. The isosis stage of the alchemical great work is equated to rubedo (red) the attainment of the Magnum Opus or Great Work. The seed of ios is contained within a substance, eventually causing breakdown or corrosion to enter a new cycle.



rusty bicycle


Non-Fiction Books:


Fiction Books:

READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series

READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries






6 views

Recent Posts

See All
bottom of page