Maya Blue Paint: An Ancient Nanostructured Material
Maya blue paint was often used in Mesoamerica. The origin of its color and its resistance to acids and biocorrosion have not been fully understood. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy, electron energy loss spectroscopy, and x-ray microanalysis studies of authentic samples show that palygorskite crystals in the paint form a superlattice that probably occurs as a result of mixing with indigo molecules. An amorphous silicate substrate contains inclusions of metal nanoparticles encapsulated in the substrate and oxide nanoparticles on the surface. The beautiful tone of the color is obtained only when both the particles and the superlattice are present.
Jose-Yacaman
M
M. Jose-Yacaman and L. Rendon, Instituto de Fisica, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Apdo. Postal 20-364, Delegacion Alvaro Obregon, 01000 Mexico, D.F., Mexico. J. Arenas, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares, Carr. Mexico-Toluca Km. 36.5, 52045 Salazar Edo. de Mexico. M. C. Serra Puche, Museo Nacional de Antropologia, Instituto Nacional de Antropologia e Historia, Paseo de la Reforma y Gandhi s/n, Polanco, 11560 Mexico, D.F., Mexico.
Rendon
L
Arenas
J
Serra Puche MC