rheological properties tagged posts

On canvas, the consistency of gels and gel-paint mixtures differs greatly from that of paint alone, which spreads without retaining volume. Credit: © Hélène Pasco, LAMS (CNRS, UPMC)

To paint quickly while creating exceptional texture and volume effects, J. M. W. Turner and other English artists of his generation relied on the development of innovative gels. All the rage in the 19th century – and still in use today – these compounds alter the properties of the oil paints they are combined with. CNRS, UPMC, and Collège de France researchers have finally learned the chemical secrets behind these mixtures. Lead – in its acetate form – is essential for the formation of the gels.

Oil paints were traditionally made by grinding pigments together with linseed, walnut, or poppy oil...