Phthalocyanine Turquoise
PB16
Alternate Names
Heliogen Blue L 7560
Phthalocyanine Blue Metal Free
Phthalo Blue Metal Free
Pigment Description
A very beautiful green-leaning cyan which is a nice addition to the paintbox. While most people reach for PB15:3 instead, this is a slightly greener shade of phthalo blue (a sort of phthalo teal blue) which may be a pleasant color to have at the ready. A work-around for this color can be mixed with PB15:3 and PG7.
PB16 is almost black in masstone and becomes gloriously high chroma in tints and glazes. It tends to have excellent lightfastness.
While phthalos are thought to be less toxic than other some paints, avoid tubes made before 1982 (or even we have heard as late as1986) as they may be contaminated with PCBs-- and unfortunately it is not totally guaranteed that more modern phthalos will be free of these contaminants. Depending where a company sources their phthalo pigment it can be contaminated by PCBs and even dioxins, as countries do not all share the same regulations and standards. Please see Monona Rossol's work for more information. Handle all artist colors with care.
Also called metal free phthalocyanine.
Resources
PB16 pigment data from David G. Myers, The Color of Art Pigment Database, Artiscreation.com
Information about PB16 from Bruce MacEvoy, Handprint Guide to Watercolors, General information about this class of pigments from Handprint,
Rossol, Monona. The Artist's Complete Health and Safety Guide. New York, NY : Allworth Press, 2001. The book is rather dated, updated information is available from her website.
Stats
Lightfastness
Excellent
Some of the tests done by Bruce MacEvoy indicate less lightfastness in watercolor.
Transparency
Transparent
Almost black in masstone, this creates some of the most vibrant turquoise tints and glazes
Toxicity
Previously thought to be in the category of Lower Concern, but may contain contaminants
Tubes made before 1982 or even 1986 may contain PCBs or dioxins. Current phthalos may also contain toxic contaminants depending on country of manufacture or other variables. Treat all pigments and paints with studio safety protocols. Please see the Artist's Guide to Health and Safety for information. The author's most recent updated writing can be found through her site.
Tinting
Very Strong
One of the most powerful tinters. This color is one where it is almost always sold with extenders just to make the paint more usable.
Dry Time
Probably slow or very slow (other phthalo blues dry in 6-18 days). Many offerings dry in 5 days or less and likely contain driers.
Oil Content
May be Moderate
Medium oil requirements by volume, but when made into a paint, it may be on the higher end of moderate
Chemical Name
Metal Free Phthalocyanine
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