phthalocyanine

[ thal-uh-sahy-uh-neen, -nin, fthal- ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. Also called metal-free phthalocyanine. a blue-green pigment, C 3 2 H 1 8 N 8 , derived from phthalic anhydride.
2. any of the group of blue or green pigments produced by the interaction of metal-free phthalocyanine and a metal, especially copper: used chiefly in the manufacture of enamels, printing inks, and automotive finishes.

phthalocyanine

/ ˌθæləʊˈsaɪəˌniːn; ˌfθæl-; ˌθeɪ- /

noun

1. a cyclic blue-green organic pigment. Formula: (C 6 H 4 C 2 N) 4 N 4 H 4
2. any of a class of compounds derived by coordination of this compound with a metal atom. They are blue or green pigments used in printing inks, plastics, and enamels

Word History and Origins

Origin of phthalocyanine¹

First recorded in 1930–35; (na)phthal(ene) + -o- + cyanine

Word History and Origins

Origin of phthalocyanine¹

C20: from phthal- (see phthalein ) + cyanine