Antimony trioxide

Antimony trioxide, also called antimony white, is a synthetic white pigment of pure antimony(III) oxide. It is a fine, dense white with good hiding power and low oil absorption, and it contains no lead. Use it for opaque whites and light tints in oil, acrylic, egg tempera, watercolor and gouache.

Key facts

• Color: pure white
• Pigment type: Synthetic inorganic pigment
• Colour Index: PW11 (C.I. 77052)
• Composition: antimony trioxide, Sb₂O₃
• Origin: synthetic
• Also known as: antimony white, antimony oxide
• Opacity: opaque
• Lightfastness: 6–7 of 8 on the Blue Wool Scale (supplier data); the supplier notes it may yellow with time
• Chemical resistance: alkali 3/5, lime 5/5, acid 3/5 (supplier data, 5 = best); an amphoteric oxide that dissolves in strong acids and alkalis
• Suitable for: oil, acrylic, egg tempera, watercolor, gouache
• Packaging: 50 g jar · 1 kg bag

How to use

Disperse it with a palette knife or muller in linseed oil, acrylic medium, egg yolk or gum arabic, wetting the powder first so that no dust rises. Because its oil absorption is low, it makes a dense oil paint with relatively little oil; the supplier notes that it slows the drying of oil films, so allow extra time between layers. Sulfur fumes can discolor it (supplier), so store it closed.

About antimony white

Antimony trioxide occurs in nature as the minerals valentinite and senarmontite, but pigment grades are made industrially, mostly by oxidizing antimony metal. It was introduced as an artists' white around 1920 and sold in England under the name Timonox. Today its main use is as a flame-retardant synergist in plastics, and it also opacifies glass, ceramics and enamels.

Safety

Contains antimony trioxide, which is suspected of causing cancer when inhaled. Handle dry pigment with care: avoid breathing the dust and contact with eyes. Wear a dust mask (FFP2/N95) and gloves when working with the powder, work in a well-ventilated area and wipe up spills with a damp cloth. Do not eat, drink or smoke while working; wash your hands afterwards. Keep away from children and pets. For artistic and technical use only — not for cosmetics, food or tattoos.

FAQ

Is antimony white toxic?

It contains no lead, but it is not harmless: antimony trioxide is suspected of causing cancer when inhaled. Avoid dust and wear an FFP2/N95 mask when handling the powder.

How does it compare with titanium and zinc white?

Titanium white covers more strongly than any other white, while zinc white is cooler and more transparent. Antimony white is a dense, opaque, lead-free white with low oil absorption.