Molybdenum doping leads to faster photo-dissolution of commercial molybdate red pigment than chrome yellow pigment under sunlight irradiation.

The photo-dissolution of lead chromate pigments poses specific environmental hazards. In this study, we report that doping molybdenum in lead chromate pigments, resulting in commonly known molybdate red pigment, increases the risk of heavy metal leaching when exposed to light. Commercial molybdate red pigments undergo photo-dissolution when exposed to simulated sunlight and exhibit lower photostability compared to lead chromate pigments such as chrome yellow. After 24 h of irradiation, the leaching rates of toxic lead and chromium from molybdate red pigments were 2.98 and 3.70 times higher, respectively, than those from chrome yellow pigments. The primary factor leading to decreased pigment photostability is the activation of pigment semiconductors facilitated by molybdenum doping. Molybdate red pigments exhibit a broader light absorption spectrum and more efficient separation and transfer of photogenerated charge carriers than chrome yellow pigments, boosting the photochemical activity. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to illustrate the doping effect on the photostability of commercial inorganic pigments and the consequent heavy metal leaching. Our results suggest that Mo doping reduces the photostability of lead chromate pigments, highlighting the potential elevated environmental risks associated with complex inorganic pigments.