Preparation of Liquid Plant Pigments Based on Peels of Vegetables and Fruits Containing Anthocyanin
TANG Hong-Bo1,2, LIU Bing-Bing1, ZHANG Lu-Yao1, TU Xiao-Li1, SHEN Guo-Xiang1, ZOU Yu-Han1, ZHOU Jian1,2**
1. College of Chemistry and Biology Engineering, Yichun University, Yichun 336000, China; 2. Key Laboratory of Jiangxi University for Applied Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Yichun University, Yichun 336000, China
Abstract In the spirit of turning waste to wealth, a simple and safe method to extract natural anthocyanin in the peel was introduced here, and then the extraction solution was mixed with white vinegar or soda to produce colorful pigments used in beautiful paintings. Purple sweet potato was used to present this magic change. The freshness of the purple sweet potato played a key role in colors of the pigments, and the pigment color of fresh purple sweet potato was brownish, while that of long standing purple sweet potato was brighter. Additionally, acid-base property of paper was also vital in the application of the pigments due to the sensitivity of anthocyanin in the solution. This experiment had several attractive features, like vivid and direct presentation of chemical reaction. Besides, materials used in the experiment were safe, green, and easy to get, so it was convenient for people to conduct it at home. Hence, it was a good way to attract public attention to chemistry, and then cultivate students’ ability of practice and thinking.
TANG Hong-Bo, LIU Bing-Bing, ZHANG Lu-Yao, TU Xiao-Li, SHEN Guo-Xiang, ZOU Yu-Han, ZHOU Jian. Preparation of Liquid Plant Pigments Based on Peels of Vegetables and Fruits Containing Anthocyanin[J]. Chinese Journal of Chemical Education, 2023, 44(3): 1-5.