Hansa (Arylide) yellow

Hansa (Arylide) yellow is a synthetic organic pigment powder, the monoazo arylide yellow PY65: a bright, saturated deep yellow with a reddish tint. Like all arylide yellows, it contains no cadmium. It is semi-transparent with good tinting strength, for acrylic, egg tempera, watercolor and gouache.

Key facts

• Color: bright, deep reddish yellow
• Pigment type: Synthetic organic pigment (monoazo arylide)
• Colour Index: PY65 (C.I. 11740)
• Composition: monoazo arylide yellow, C₁₈H₁₈N₄O₆
• Origin: synthetic
• Also known as: Hansa Yellow Deep, Arylide Yellow RN, monoazo yellow
• Opacity: semi-transparent
• Lightfastness: 7–8 of 8 on the Blue Wool Scale (supplier data)
• Chemical resistance: alkali 4/5, lime 4/5, acid 2/5 (supplier data, 5 = best)
• Suitable for: acrylic, egg tempera, watercolor, gouache
• Packaging: 20 g jar · 100 g jar

How to use

Wet the light powder with a few drops of binder, then mull it into acrylic medium, egg yolk or gum arabic with a palette knife or muller until smooth. Arylide yellows have good tinting strength and stain, so add them to mixtures gradually. Being semi-transparent, PY65 glazes well over light grounds and gives warm, clean yellows and oranges in mixtures. Keep it away from acids (acid resistance 2/5, supplier data) and store the jar closed.

About Hansa yellow

Arylide yellows were discovered in Germany in 1909 and are often sold under the name Hansa. They have partly displaced the toxic cadmium yellows and are used in plastics, building paints and inks as well as artists' colors; painters such as Alexander Calder and Jackson Pollock used arylide yellow. PY65, a deep variety, is also widely used in road-marking paint.

Safety

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

Does Hansa yellow contain cadmium?

No. It is a synthetic organic pigment (PY65) with no cadmium. Arylide yellows have partly replaced the toxic cadmium yellows in paints.

Is Hansa yellow lightfast?

Yes. Our supplier rates it 7–8 of 8 on the Blue Wool Scale, and references rate PY65 ASTM I.

Which media is it for?

Our supplier recommends it for acrylic, egg tempera, watercolor and gouache.